How to Become a Respiratory Therapists in Pennsylvania
Respiratory Therapists in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $76,160/year, which is 5% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a respiratory therapists takes home approximately $3,557/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a respiratory therapists can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a respiratory therapists in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Respiratory Therapists positions in Pennsylvania typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many respiratory therapists positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for respiratory therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 5,850 respiratory therapists. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Reading.
Respiratory Therapists salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $86K | $41.19/hr | 2,740 |
| Reading | $81K | $39.16/hr | 150 |
| Lancaster | $79K | $38.1/hr | 220 |
| Williamsport | $79K | $37.95/hr | 50 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $78K | $37.54/hr | 530 |
| York-Hanover | $76K | $36.65/hr | 160 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $76K | $36.5/hr | 390 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $73K | $35.23/hr | 190 |
| Erie | $68K | $32.54/hr | 120 |
| Pittsburgh | $68K | $32.46/hr | 1,260 |
Respiratory Therapists salary range in Pennsylvania
Respiratory Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a respiratory therapists make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median respiratory therapists salary in Pennsylvania is $76,160 per year ($36.62/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $80,450. Salaries range from $61,440 to $97,490.
What are the requirements to become a respiratory therapists in Pennsylvania?▼
Respiratory Therapists positions in Pennsylvania typically require Associate's degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a respiratory therapists afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $76,160, a respiratory therapists in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $4,969/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for respiratory therapists in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for respiratory therapists in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($85,680), Reading ($81,440), Lancaster ($79,250). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for respiratory therapists?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $76,160 salary, this means roughly $2,338/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.