How to Become a Respiratory Therapists in Louisiana
Respiratory Therapists in Louisiana earn a median salary of $70,140/year, which is 13% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~3.4%. After taxes and rent, a respiratory therapists takes home approximately $3,199/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a respiratory therapists can afford in Louisiana
Becoming a respiratory therapists in Louisiana
Meet education requirements
Respiratory Therapists positions in Louisiana typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many respiratory 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.
Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification
Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for respiratory therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Louisiana
Louisiana employs 2,280 respiratory therapists. The highest concentrations are in Slidell-Mandeville-Covington and New Orleans-Metairie.
Respiratory Therapists salary by metro area in Louisiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $78K | $37.52/hr | 150 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $78K | $37.3/hr | 590 |
| Lake Charles | $76K | $36.59/hr | 50 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $75K | $35.86/hr | 330 |
| Alexandria | $74K | $35.54/hr | 110 |
| Hammond | $73K | $35.32/hr | 60 |
| Monroe | $70K | $33.56/hr | 80 |
| Baton Rouge | $68K | $32.45/hr | 290 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $66K | $31.94/hr | 110 |
| Lafayette | $64K | $30.96/hr | 220 |
Respiratory Therapists salary range in Louisiana
Respiratory Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a respiratory therapists make in Louisiana?▼
The median respiratory therapists salary in Louisiana is $70,140 per year ($33.72/hr). This is 13% below the national median of $80,450. Salaries range from $59,760 to $84,540.
What are the requirements to become a respiratory therapists in Louisiana?▼
Respiratory Therapists positions in Louisiana typically require Associate's degree. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a respiratory therapists afford to live in Louisiana?▼
At the median salary of $70,140, a respiratory therapists in Louisiana would take home approximately $4,611/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 30.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for respiratory therapists in Louisiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for respiratory therapists in Louisiana are Slidell-Mandeville-Covington ($78,040), New Orleans-Metairie ($77,590), Lake Charles ($76,100). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Louisiana have state income tax for respiratory therapists?▼
Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.4%. On a $70,140 salary, this means roughly $2,400/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.