A Comprehensive Guide to Physical Therapist Salary in Tennessee
As an experienced writer with a keen interest in the salary niche, I am here to provide you with an in-depth analysis of the Physical Therapist Salary in Tennessee. Physical therapy is a rewarding profession that not only offers a lucrative income but also the satisfaction of helping patients regain their mobility and live a pain-free life. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the physical therapist salary in the Volunteer State.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for physical therapists in the United States was $89,440 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary significantly based on factors such as location, experience, specialization, and the type of healthcare facility.
In Tennessee, the average salary for a physical therapist is slightly lower than the national average, but still quite competitive. As per the latest data from the BLS, the average annual wage for physical therapists in Tennessee was $85,650 in 2020. This equates to an hourly wage of approximately $41.18.
However, it’s important to note that these figures represent the average. Entry-level physical therapists in Tennessee can expect to earn around $60,000 per year, while experienced therapists can earn upwards of $100,000 annually.
The city you work in can also significantly impact your earnings as a physical therapist in Tennessee. For instance, physical therapists in Nashville, the state’s capital, earn an average salary of $86,000 per year. In contrast, in Memphis, the second-largest city in the state, the average salary is slightly lower at $84,000.
The type of facility you work in can also affect your salary. Physical therapists working in hospitals and outpatient care centers tend to earn more than those working in residential care facilities or home healthcare services.
Furthermore, physical therapists who specialize in certain areas can command higher salaries. For example, pediatric physical therapists and geriatric physical therapists often earn more than general physical therapists due to the specialized skills and knowledge required in these fields.
In terms of job outlook, the demand for physical therapists in Tennessee is expected to grow. The BLS predicts a 18% growth in employment for physical therapists nationwide from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the aging population, who are staying active later in life and are more likely to require physical therapy services.
In conclusion, while the salary of a physical therapist in Tennessee may be slightly lower than the national average, it is still a rewarding and lucrative profession. The job outlook is promising, and there are opportunities for higher earnings with experience and specialization.
FAQs:
1. What is the average salary for a physical therapist in Tennessee?
– The average salary for a physical therapist in Tennessee is $85,650 per year.
2. How does the salary of a physical therapist in Tennessee compare to the national average?
– The average salary for a physical therapist in Tennessee is slightly lower than the national average of $89,440.
3. What factors can affect a physical therapist’s salary in Tennessee?
– Factors that can affect a physical therapist’s salary in Tennessee include location, experience, specialization, and the type of healthcare facility.
4. What is the job outlook for physical therapists in Tennessee?
– The job outlook for physical therapists in Tennessee is promising, with a predicted 18% growth in employment from 2019 to 2029.
5. Can specialization affect a physical therapist’s salary in Tennessee?
– Yes, physical therapists who specialize in certain areas, such as pediatrics or geriatrics, can command higher salaries.
