Physical Therapist Assistants: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 108,010 physical therapist assistants, and they earn a median of $65,510/year. The range runs from $46K to $88K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level physical therapist assistants start around $46K. The gap between that and the median ($66K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $88K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| California | $79K | 8,430 |
| Massachusetts | $78K | 2,380 |
| Alaska | $76K | 100 |
| Texas | $76K | 11,230 |
| New Jersey | $75K | 1,350 |
| Connecticut | $74K | 910 |
| Virginia | $74K | 3,340 |
| Nevada | $73K | 590 |
| Washington | $73K | 2,110 |
| Maryland | $72K | 1,740 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physical therapist assistants make?▼
The median physical therapist assistants salary in the United States is $65,510 per year ($32/hour). Entry-level positions start around $46,020, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,630.
What education do you need to become a physical therapist assistants?▼
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 assistants?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for physical therapist assistants.
What are the highest paying states for physical therapist assistants?▼
The highest paying states for physical therapist assistants are California ($79,410), Massachusetts ($77,780), Alaska ($76,310), Texas ($76,250), New Jersey ($74,780). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.