How to Become a Physical Therapist Aides in Florida
Physical Therapist Aides in Florida earn a median salary of $33,520/year, which is 3% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a physical therapist aides takes home approximately $1,002/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a physical therapist aides can afford in Florida
Becoming a physical therapist aides in Florida
Meet education requirements
Physical Therapist Aides positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physical therapist aides positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for physical therapist aidess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 1,260 physical therapist aides. The highest concentrations are in Cape Coral-Fort Myers and Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater.
Physical Therapist Aides salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $39K | $18.58/hr | 70 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $35K | $16.8/hr | 140 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $34K | $16.27/hr | 310 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $33K | $15.9/hr | 30 |
| Port St. Lucie | $32K | $15.61/hr | 40 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $31K | $15/hr | 180 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $31K | $14.74/hr | 60 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $30K | $14.25/hr | 40 |
| Tallahassee | $27K | $12.97/hr | 50 |
Physical Therapist Aides salary range in Florida
Physical Therapist Aides careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physical therapist aides make in Florida?▼
The median physical therapist aides salary in Florida is $33,520 per year ($16.11/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $34,520. Salaries range from $28,550 to $40,770.
What are the requirements to become a physical therapist aides in Florida?▼
Physical Therapist Aides positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a physical therapist aides afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $33,520, a physical therapist aides in Florida would take home approximately $2,414/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 58.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physical therapist aides in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physical therapist aides in Florida are Cape Coral-Fort Myers ($38,650), Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater ($34,950), Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach ($33,840). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for physical therapist aides?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means physical therapist aides keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.