How Much Does a Physical Therapy Assistant Make? (2025)
Physical therapy is a vital part of the healthcare industry, helping patients regain movement, manage pain, and recover from injuries.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were about 157,100 physical therapist assistants and aides employed in 2024, supporting physical therapists in delivering treatment. One key role in this field is the physical therapist assistant, who typically needs an associate's degree and state licensure to practice. They work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists to provide hands-on care, assist with therapeutic exercises, and ensure patients progress safely through their recovery plans.
If you're considering a career as a physical therapy assistant, understanding the physical therapist assistant salary and job outlook is crucial. As of September 1, 2025, the average physical therapy assistant salary in the United States is $65,201 per year, or $31 per hour.
This guide explores what physical therapist assistants do, their salaries, and the factors that influence their pay.
What Does a Physical Therapy Assistant Do?
Physical therapist assistants work in settings such as hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and outpatient clinics, assisting physical therapists in helping patients recover movement and manage pain.
Their job duties include guiding patients through exercise programs, operating physical therapy equipment, and monitoring progress under a physical therapist's plan. They may also provide hands-on experience with assistive devices and educate patients on safety and injury prevention.
Physical therapy assistants often work with diverse populations, including those in pediatrics or individuals recovering from occupational injuries. They must adhere to healthcare policies, maintain patient care quality standards, and sometimes hold certifications like basic life support. Their work environment requires physical stamina, as tasks involve lifting patients or equipment and standing for long periods.
The role typically requires an associate's degree, though some pursue a bachelor's degree for career advancement. Most states require licensure or certification, which involves passing a national exam. On-the-job training is common to develop skills in anatomy, kinesiology, and physiology.
Physical Therapy Assistant Salary Overview
As of September 1, 2025, the average physical therapy assistant salary in the United States is $65,201 per year, or $31 per hour, based on employer-reported data.
The physical therapist assistant salary ranges from $50,108 to $72,079 annually, with most earnings falling between $57,301 and $68,801. The average monthly salary is $5,433, while the weekly pay averages $1,254, typically ranging from $964 to $1,386. Hourly wages vary depending on experience and location, ranging from $24 to $35.
2025 Physical Therapy Assistant Average Salary: $65,201 per year ($31 per hour)
The core median salary, including bonuses, is $68,301 annually. Salary varies by percentile, reflecting differences in experience, location, and skills:
| Percentile | Salary + Bonus |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $56,265 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,001 |
| 50th Percentile | $68,301 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,201 |
| 90th Percentile | $81,483 |
The average total compensation for physical therapy assistants is $95,501, including benefits such as healthcare ($6,056), time off ($8,406), and Social Security ($5,225), which make up 31.7% of the total pay.
| Core Compensation | ||
|---|---|---|
| Component | Median | % of Total |
| Base Salary | $65,201 | 68.3% |
| Bonus | $3,100 | 3.2% |
| Social Security | $5,225 | 5.5% |
| 401K/403B | $3,210 | 3.4% |
| Disability | $546 | 0.6% |
| Healthcare | $6,056 | 6.3% |
| Pension | $3,757 | 3.9% |
| Time Off | $8,406 | 8.8% |
| Total Compensation | $95,501 | 100% |
What Can Affect Physical Therapy Assistant Salaries?
The physical therapist assistant salary can vary depending on experience, geographic location, education, and skill set. Here's a breakdown of these factors:
By Experience Level
Physical therapy assistants with more experience earn higher salaries due to their ability to handle complex tasks and work independently under a physical therapist's supervision. According to employer-reported data, salaries increase as follows:
| Level | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant | $63,868 |
| Intermediate Level Physical Therapy Assistant | $65,405 |
| Senior Level Physical Therapy Assistant | $66,868 |
| Specialist Level Physical Therapy Assistant | $67,025 |
| Expert Level Physical Therapy Assistant | $67,129 |
By Geographic Location
Salaries for physical therapist assistants vary significantly by location due to factors like cost of living, local demand, and healthcare infrastructure. For example, high-cost states like California and urban areas like San Jose offer higher pay.
| City | 25th Percentile | 50th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose, California | $72,301 | $82,201 | $86,701 |
| San Francisco, California | $71,601 | $81,401 | $85,901 |
| Washington, D.C. | $63,401 | $72,201 | $76,101 |
| Miami, Florida | $55,101 | $62,601 | $66,101 |
| Chicago, Illinois | $59,201 | $67,401 | $71,101 |
| Boston, Massachusetts | $63,901 | $72,701 | $76,701 |
| New York, New York | $66,401 | $75,501 | $79,701 |
| Dallas, Texas | $56,601 | $64,401 | $67,901 |
By Skills
High-demand skills can boost a physical therapy assistant's salary. According to real-time job posting data, skills like exercise physiology and therapeutic care are highly valued:
| Skill | Demand | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise Physiology | 10.30% | +9.57% |
| Therapeutic Care | 10.60% | +9.01% |
| Athletic Training | 10.80% | +8.58% |
| Safety, Injury Prevention and Emergency Procedures | 10.50% | +8.28% |
| Exercise Prescription and Programming | 10.40% | +8.13% |
| Physical Therapy Equipment Operation | 10.60% | +7.98% |
How to Become a Physical Therapy Assistant?
To become a physical therapy assistant, follow these steps to prepare for the role:
- Get an education: Most physical therapist assistants hold an associate's degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program, which includes coursework in anatomy, kinesiology, and physiology. While a high school diploma may suffice for entry into these programs, a bachelor's degree can enhance career prospects. Some states require licensure or certification, which involves passing a national exam administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
- Gain experience and training: Entry-level physical therapy assistants gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations during their program and on-the-job training. Working under the supervision of physical therapists, they develop skills in patient care, equipment operation, and exercise programs. Certifications like basic life support can further enhance employability.
- Develop key characteristics: Successful physical therapy assistants are compassionate, detail-oriented, and physically capable of assisting patients. They must communicate effectively with patients, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals like speech therapists or physicians. An interest in helping people regain movement and manage pain is essential.
What are the FAQs about Physical Therapy Assistants?
Here are some common questions about physical therapy assistant salary:
How much do physical therapy assistants make in the US?
As of September 1, 2025, the national average physical therapy assistant salary is $65,201 per year, or $31 per hour, with a range of $50,108 to $72,079.
What is the difference between a physical therapy assistant and a physical therapist?
Physical therapist assistants work under the direction of physical therapists, performing tasks like guiding patients through exercises and using therapy equipment. Physical therapists, who typically hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, diagnose conditions and create treatment plans. Physical therapists earn more, averaging $105,901 annually, compared to $65,201 for assistants.
Is physical therapy assistant a high-paying job?
While not as high paying as some healthcare roles like physical therapists or physicians, the physical therapy assistant salary is competitive, with a median of $65,201 and top earners reaching $72,079. Benefits like healthcare and time off increase total compensation to $95,501.
What is the salary range for physical therapy assistants in the U.S.?
The salary range is $50,108 to $72,079 annually, with most earning between $57,301 and $68,801.
How much does a physical therapy assistant make in California?
In California, the average physical therapy assistant salary is $71,901 per year, or about $34.57 per hour.
What is the job outlook for physical therapy assistants?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16% job growth for physical therapist assistants and aides from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations, with about 26,400 openings annually.
