How to Become a Physical Therapists in North Carolina
Physical Therapists in North Carolina earn a median salary of $96,670/year, which is 4% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a physical therapists takes home approximately $4,592/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a physical therapists can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a physical therapists in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Physical Therapists positions in North Carolina typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physical therapists positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for physical therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 7,350 physical therapists. The highest concentrations are in Rocky Mount and Fayetteville.
Physical Therapists salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rocky Mount | $101K | $48.74/hr | 70 |
| Fayetteville | $100K | $48.3/hr | 200 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $100K | $48.23/hr | 1,930 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $99K | $47.58/hr | 160 |
| Asheville | $99K | $47.5/hr | 340 |
| Winston-Salem | $98K | $47.04/hr | 410 |
| Goldsboro | $97K | $46.58/hr | 50 |
| Burlington | $97K | $46.51/hr | 100 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $97K | $46.46/hr | 690 |
| Greenville | $96K | $46.16/hr | 190 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $94K | $45.12/hr | 1,100 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $94K | $45.04/hr | 500 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $92K | $44.16/hr | 130 |
| Jacksonville | $90K | $43.1/hr | 70 |
| Wilmington | $85K | $40.77/hr | 550 |
Physical Therapists salary range in North Carolina
Physical Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physical therapists make in North Carolina?▼
The median physical therapists salary in North Carolina is $96,670 per year ($46.47/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $101,020. Salaries range from $72,850 to $121,380.
What are the requirements to become a physical therapists in North Carolina?▼
Physical Therapists positions in North Carolina typically require Doctoral or professional degree. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a physical therapists afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $96,670, a physical therapists in North Carolina would take home approximately $6,004/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physical therapists in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physical therapists in North Carolina are Rocky Mount ($101,390), Fayetteville ($100,450), Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($100,310). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for physical therapists?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $96,670 salary, this means roughly $4,350/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.