Physical Therapist Aides vs. Nursing Assistants: Who Earns More?
Nursing Assistantss out-earn Physical Therapist Aidess by $7K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Physical Therapist Aidess land at $35,240 and Nursing Assistantss at $42,260. The education gap is real: physical therapist aide programs typically require postsecondary nondegree award, while nursing assistant programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Physical Therapist Aidess is Alaska ($55,760); for Nursing Assistantss it's Oregon ($49,830).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Physical Therapist Aides median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Physical Therapist Aidess or Nursing Assistantss?
Nursing Assistantss earn more nationally. The median is $35,240 for Physical Therapist Aidess versus $42,260 for Nursing Assistantss, a difference of $7K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Physical Therapist Aides or Nursing Assistants?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Physical Therapist Aides or Nursing Assistants?
Physical Therapist Aides typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Nursing Assistants requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Physical Therapist Aidess get paid the most?
Alaska is the top-paying state for Physical Therapist Aidess at $55,760/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Physical Therapist Aides vs. Nursing Assistants pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Alaska, Physical Therapist Aidess earn $55,760 vs. $46,370 for Nursing Assistantss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.