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How to Become a Physical Therapists in Louisiana

Physical Therapists in Louisiana earn a median salary of $98,530/year, which is 4% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~3.7%. After taxes and rent, a physical therapists takes home approximately $3,363/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.

$99K
Median salary in Louisiana
-4%
vs. national average
3.7%
State income tax
3,280
Employed in Louisiana

What a physical therapists can afford in Louisiana

Gross annual salary$98,530
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.7% state tax)$6,175/mo
Median 2BR rent (Louisiana)-$2,812/mo
Rent as % of take-home45.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$98,530/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,363/mo

Becoming a physical therapists in Louisiana

1

Meet education requirements

Physical Therapists positions in Louisiana typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many physical therapists 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.

3

Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification

Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for physical therapistss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Louisiana

Louisiana employs 3,280 physical therapists. The highest concentrations are in Alexandria and Slidell-Mandeville-Covington.

Physical Therapists salary by metro area in Louisiana

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Alexandria$103K$49.7/hr160
Slidell-Mandeville-Covington$102K$49.03/hr230
New Orleans-Metairie$101K$48.33/hr710
Shreveport-Bossier City$100K$48.19/hr280
Hammond$99K$47.56/hr130
Baton Rouge$99K$47.56/hr590
Monroe$96K$46.22/hr170
Lake Charles$89K$42.74/hr140
Lafayette$84K$40.55/hr290
Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux$78K$37.65/hr180

Physical Therapists salary range in Louisiana

10th percentile (entry)
$60K
25th percentile
$78K
Median (50th)
$99K
75th percentile
$110K
90th percentile (senior)
$128K
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Full physical therapists salary breakdown in Louisiana
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a physical therapists make in Louisiana?

The median physical therapists salary in Louisiana is $98,530 per year ($47.37/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $102,760. Salaries range from $60,150 to $127,640.

What are the requirements to become a physical therapists in Louisiana?

Physical Therapists positions in Louisiana typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a physical therapists afford to live in Louisiana?

At the median salary of $98,530, a physical therapists in Louisiana would take home approximately $6,175/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $2,812/month, that's 45.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for physical therapists in Louisiana?

The highest paying metro areas for physical therapists in Louisiana are Alexandria ($103,380), Slidell-Mandeville-Covington ($101,980), New Orleans-Metairie ($100,530). 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 therapists?

Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.7%. On a $98,530 salary, this means roughly $3,606/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.