How to Become a Respiratory Therapists in Alabama
Respiratory Therapists in Alabama earn a median salary of $64,010/year, which is 20% below the national average. Alabama has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a respiratory therapists takes home approximately $2,786/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a respiratory therapists can afford in Alabama
Becoming a respiratory therapists in Alabama
Meet education requirements
Respiratory Therapists positions in Alabama typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Alabama. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many respiratory therapists positions in Alabama require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Alabama licensure or certification
Alabama may require specific licensing or professional certification for respiratory therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Alabama Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Alabama
Alabama employs 2,250 respiratory therapists. The highest concentrations are in Montgomery and Daphne-Fairhope-Foley.
Respiratory Therapists salary by metro area in Alabama
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montgomery | $74K | $35.65/hr | 170 |
| Daphne-Fairhope-Foley | $72K | $34.6/hr | 80 |
| Mobile | $67K | $32.42/hr | 160 |
| Huntsville | $67K | $32.33/hr | 260 |
| Birmingham | $65K | $31.31/hr | 740 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals | $65K | $31.17/hr | 90 |
| Anniston-Oxford | $64K | $30.86/hr | 70 |
| Gadsden | $59K | $28.41/hr | 70 |
| Decatur | $57K | $27.63/hr | 50 |
| Dothan | $53K | $25.56/hr | 100 |
| Tuscaloosa | $50K | $23.97/hr | 80 |
Respiratory Therapists salary range in Alabama
Respiratory Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a respiratory therapists make in Alabama?▼
The median respiratory therapists salary in Alabama is $64,010 per year ($30.78/hr). This is 20% below the national median of $80,450. Salaries range from $48,490 to $82,920.
What are the requirements to become a respiratory therapists in Alabama?▼
Respiratory Therapists positions in Alabama typically require Associate's degree. Alabama may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Alabama licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a respiratory therapists afford to live in Alabama?▼
At the median salary of $64,010, a respiratory therapists in Alabama would take home approximately $4,198/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for respiratory therapists in Alabama?▼
The highest paying metro areas for respiratory therapists in Alabama are Montgomery ($74,160), Daphne-Fairhope-Foley ($71,970), Mobile ($67,430). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Alabama have state income tax for respiratory therapists?▼
Yes, Alabama has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $64,010 salary, this means roughly $3,036/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.