Physical Therapists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Physical Therapists out-earn Registered Nurses by $5K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Physical Therapists land at $102,760 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: physical therapist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Physical Therapists is California ($124,190); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Physical Therapists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Physical Therapists or Registered Nurses?
Physical Therapists earn more nationally. The median is $102,760 for Physical Therapists versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $5K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Physical Therapists or Registered Nurses?
Physical Therapists has the better 10-year outlook at 10.9% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Physical Therapists or Registered Nurses?
Physical Therapists typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Physical Therapists get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Physical Therapists at $124,190/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Physical Therapists vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Physical Therapists earn $124,190 vs. $140,270 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.