How to Become a Physical Therapists in Tennessee
Physical Therapists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $100,660/year, which is 0% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a physical therapists takes home approximately $5,188/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a physical therapists can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a physical therapists in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Physical Therapists positions in Tennessee typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physical therapists positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for physical therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 4,420 physical therapists. The highest concentrations are in Cleveland and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Physical Therapists salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleveland | $104K | $50.12/hr | 50 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $104K | $49.88/hr | 1,350 |
| Memphis | $101K | $48.73/hr | 750 |
| Chattanooga | $99K | $47.43/hr | 430 |
| Morristown | $98K | $47.35/hr | 70 |
| Knoxville | $97K | $46.68/hr | 560 |
| Jackson | $97K | $46.59/hr | 140 |
| Johnson City | $97K | $46.51/hr | 160 |
| Clarksville | $94K | $45.31/hr | 130 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $93K | $44.83/hr | 200 |
Physical Therapists salary range in Tennessee
Physical Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physical therapists make in Tennessee?▼
The median physical therapists salary in Tennessee is $100,660 per year ($48.4/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $101,020. Salaries range from $74,160 to $123,800.
What are the requirements to become a physical therapists in Tennessee?▼
Physical Therapists positions in Tennessee typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a physical therapists afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $100,660, a physical therapists in Tennessee would take home approximately $6,600/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 21.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physical therapists in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physical therapists in Tennessee are Cleveland ($104,250), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($103,750), Memphis ($101,360). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for physical therapists?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means physical therapists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.