How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistants in California
Physical Therapist Assistants in California earn a median salary of $79,410/year, which is 21% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a physical therapist assistants takes home approximately $3,649/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a physical therapist assistants can afford in California
Becoming a physical therapist assistants in California
Meet education requirements
Physical Therapist Assistants positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physical therapist assistants positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for physical therapist assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 8,430 physical therapist assistants. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Physical Therapist Assistants salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $97K | $46.81/hr | 330 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $97K | $46.74/hr | 850 |
| Modesto | $96K | $46.21/hr | 140 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $90K | $43.27/hr | 80 |
| Salinas | $84K | $40.49/hr | 50 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $84K | $40.3/hr | 50 |
| Chico | $84K | $40.2/hr | 50 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $83K | $40.03/hr | 440 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $82K | $39.63/hr | 70 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $82K | $39.27/hr | 700 |
| Redding | $82K | $39.2/hr | 50 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $81K | $39.15/hr | 100 |
| Vallejo | $81K | $38.99/hr | 30 |
| Visalia | $80K | $38.39/hr | 70 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $79K | $38.14/hr | 730 |
Physical Therapist Assistants salary range in California
Physical Therapist Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physical therapist assistants make in California?▼
The median physical therapist assistants salary in California is $79,410 per year ($38.18/hr). This is 21% above the national median of $65,510. Salaries range from $55,380 to $105,210.
What are the requirements to become a physical therapist assistants in California?▼
Physical Therapist Assistants positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a physical therapist assistants afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $79,410, a physical therapist assistants in California would take home approximately $5,061/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physical therapist assistants in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physical therapist assistants in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($97,350), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($97,230), Modesto ($96,120). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for physical therapist assistants?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $79,410 salary, this means roughly $3,523/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.