Physical Therapist Aides: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 44,010 physical therapist aides, and they earn a median of $34,520/year. The range runs from $25K to $47K. Minnesota pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level physical therapist aides start around $25K. The gap between that and the median ($35K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $47K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $44K | 90 |
| Alaska | $42K | 130 |
| Massachusetts | $38K | 530 |
| District of Columbia | $38K | 30 |
| Washington | $38K | 740 |
| Hawaii | $36K | 110 |
| Iowa | $36K | 300 |
| Pennsylvania | $36K | 980 |
| North Dakota | $36K | 120 |
| California | $36K | 6,800 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physical therapist aides make?▼
The median physical therapist aides salary in the United States is $34,520 per year ($17/hour). Entry-level positions start around $24,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $46,930.
What education do you need to become a physical therapist aides?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for physical therapist aides?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for physical therapist aides.
What are the highest paying states for physical therapist aides?▼
The highest paying states for physical therapist aides are Minnesota ($44,340), Alaska ($42,320), Massachusetts ($38,000), District of Columbia ($37,820), Washington ($37,730). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.