Exploring How Much Physical Therapists Make in Texas
Physical therapy is an essential component of healthcare, providing patients with the necessary care to improve their mobility, flexibility and overall quality of life. A career in physical therapy can be a rewarding one, especially for those who work in Texas where demand for physical therapists is high, and the salaries are competitive. If you are considering a career as a physical therapist in Texas or looking to relocate to this state, it is essential to understand how much physical therapists make in Texas. In this article, we will explore what factors impact the salaries of physical therapists in Texas, compare the state’s salaries with the national average, and discuss how someone can get started in this career field.
Exploring the Salary of Physical Therapists in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide
The job market for physical therapists in Texas is relatively stable, with a projected growth rate higher than the national average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of physical therapists in Texas is expected to grow by 30.1% from 2018 to 2028. The demand for physical therapists in Texas is also higher than the national average, making it an attractive career option for those in the field or about to start their career.
Many factors can affect the salary of a physical therapist in Texas, including experience, education level, specialization, location, and employer type. When considering a career in physical therapy, it is essential to understand these factors and how they can impact salaries.
Breaking Down the Numbers: Physical Therapy Salaries in Texas
Physical therapists in Texas earn an average salary of $91,490, according to the BLS (as of May 2020). The median salary for physical therapists in Texas is $89,000, which is higher than the national median salary of $89,440. This data indicates that Texas is a good state to work in if you’re a physical therapist.
The highest paying cities for physical therapists in Texas are Houston, Dallas, and Austin, where physical therapists earn an average salary of $94,960, $92,700, and $90,020, respectively. Compared to the national average, these rates are above average, making Texas a favourable location for physical therapy professionals.
From New Grad to Experienced Practitioner: Earning Potential for Texas Physical Therapists
Salaries in the physical therapy industry can vary based on experience, with vast earning potential for those who have been working in this field for several years. A newly graduated physical therapist can expect to earn between $60,000 and $75,000 a year. However, as they gain more experience, their salaries could increase to more than $100,000 a year, depending on their level of expertise and the unique factors affecting their practice such as added specializations.
The Factors That Impact Physical Therapist Salaries in Texas
As mentioned earlier, several factors can impact a physical therapist’s salary in Texas, including education level, type of employer, location, and specialization.
Physical therapists working in Texas can earn more if they have advanced educational degrees or additional certifications. For instance, those who have completed post-graduate studies can expect to earn a higher salary. In contrast, less-educated physical therapists can expect to earn a lower salary.
Moreover, the type of employer and location play a significant role in determining a physical therapist’s salary. Working for a hospital or school district means a higher salary, and larger cities tend to have a higher average salary than rural areas.
What Can Physical Therapists Expect to Make in Texas? A Statewide Analysis
According to ZipRecruiter, Physical therapists in major cities in Texas tend to earn more than those in smaller towns or rural areas. For instance, some of the highest paid cities for physical therapists in Texas include Houston, Dallas, and Austin, where physical therapy salaries are a bit higher than those in other parts of the state.
Other factors that could impact the salary for a physical therapist in Texas include the presence of other healthcare facilities like Hospitals or Clinics. If a particular region has a shortage of professionals and high demand for its skills, it can lead to an increase in the salaries of physical therapists within that region.
Interviews with Texas Physical Therapists: How Much They Make and How They Got There
Interviews with Texas-based physical therapists suggest that salaries for physical therapists can vary widely. It is not uncommon to see physical therapists earn salaries between $60,000 and $120,000, depending on their experience, specialization, and location. One interviewee mentioned that their employer regularly gives bonuses, with the highest performing physical therapists earning annual bonuses of up to $10,000.
Another interviewee shared that they got their job through networking with their professors and fellow graduates. They emphasized the importance of building good professional relationships in the industry, as this helps to create opportunities. They also recommended getting involved with the physical therapy community, as this provides valuable information on industry trends and job opportunities.
Conclusion
Physical therapists in Texas earn competitive salaries thanks to the high demand for these services in the state. Salaries for physical therapists in Texas vary based on different factors, such as experience, education level, employer, and location. It is essential to understand these factors and have reliable information when considering a career in physical therapy in Texas. As the state’s job market grows, it continues to be a lucrative profession, and the earning potential for physical therapists in Texas continues to increase.
