How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistants in Louisiana
Physical Therapist Assistants in Louisiana earn a median salary of $61,340/year, which is 6% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~3.3%. After taxes and rent, a physical therapist assistants takes home approximately $2,696/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a physical therapist assistants can afford in Louisiana
Becoming a physical therapist assistants in Louisiana
Meet education requirements
Physical Therapist Assistants positions in Louisiana typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physical therapist assistants positions in Louisiana require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification
Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for physical therapist assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Louisiana
Louisiana employs 1,500 physical therapist assistants. The highest concentrations are in Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux and Shreveport-Bossier City.
Physical Therapist Assistants salary by metro area in Louisiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $66K | $31.79/hr | 60 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $64K | $30.9/hr | 170 |
| Lake Charles | $63K | $30.12/hr | 80 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $63K | $30.11/hr | 290 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $60K | $29/hr | 80 |
| Monroe | $60K | $28.76/hr | 70 |
| Alexandria | $59K | $28.19/hr | 40 |
| Baton Rouge | $58K | $27.73/hr | 240 |
| Lafayette | $51K | $24.46/hr | 170 |
| Hammond | $30K | $14.24/hr | 50 |
Physical Therapist Assistants salary range in Louisiana
Physical Therapist Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physical therapist assistants make in Louisiana?▼
The median physical therapist assistants salary in Louisiana is $61,340 per year ($29.49/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $65,510. Salaries range from $22,180 to $82,590.
What are the requirements to become a physical therapist assistants in Louisiana?▼
Physical Therapist Assistants positions in Louisiana typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a physical therapist assistants afford to live in Louisiana?▼
At the median salary of $61,340, a physical therapist assistants in Louisiana would take home approximately $4,108/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physical therapist assistants in Louisiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physical therapist assistants in Louisiana are Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux ($66,130), Shreveport-Bossier City ($64,260), Lake Charles ($62,640). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Louisiana have state income tax for physical therapist assistants?▼
Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.3%. On a $61,340 salary, this means roughly $2,026/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.