Respiratory Therapists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 136,420 respiratory therapists, and they earn a median of $80,450/year. The range runs from $62K to $109K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level respiratory therapists start around $62K. The gap between that and the median ($80K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $109K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $104K | 360 |
| New York | $104K | 6,780 |
| California | $102K | 18,310 |
| New Jersey | $98K | 3,200 |
| Washington | $97K | 1,850 |
| Massachusetts | $97K | 2,140 |
| Oregon | $96K | 1,410 |
| Hawaii | $95K | 310 |
| Alaska | $94K | 170 |
| Minnesota | $88K | 1,190 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a respiratory therapists make?▼
The median respiratory therapists salary in the United States is $80,450 per year ($39/hour). Entry-level positions start around $61,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $108,820.
What education do you need to become a respiratory therapists?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for respiratory therapists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for respiratory therapists.
What are the highest paying states for respiratory therapists?▼
The highest paying states for respiratory therapists are District of Columbia ($104,240), New York ($103,820), California ($102,120), New Jersey ($98,020), Washington ($97,150). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.