Physical therapy is a rewarding career that combines the satisfaction of helping others improve their quality of life with a stable and lucrative income. In the United States, the demand for physical therapists is rising, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 28% growth in employment opportunities between 2016 and 2026. This article will delve into the specifics of physical therapy salaries in Arkansas, providing an accurate and detailed overview of what you can expect if you’re considering this career path in the Natural State.
Arkansas, named after the river that traverses it, is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the mountainous regions of the Ozarks to the fertile plains of the Mississippi River Valley. The state is also home to a thriving healthcare industry, with physical therapists playing a crucial role.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2020, the average annual salary for a physical therapist in Arkansas is $84,540. This figure is slightly lower than the national average of $90,170. However, the cost of living in Arkansas is significantly lower than the national average, making it a financially attractive location for physical therapists.
Salaries vary widely depending on several factors, including the level of experience, specialization, location within the state, and the type of healthcare facility. For instance, physical therapists with specialized skills, such as geriatric or pediatric therapy, may command higher salaries. Similarly, those working in metropolitan areas like Little Rock or Fayetteville may earn more than their counterparts in rural areas due to the higher cost of living and greater demand for their services.
Physical therapists in Arkansas typically work in various settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, and nursing homes. Those working in home health care tend to earn the highest salaries, with an average annual wage of $95,440. In contrast, those working in nursing and residential care facilities earn an average of $81,030 annually.
Arkansas is also home to several renowned physical therapy programs, such as the University of Central Arkansas, which is ranked among the top 15% of physical therapy schools in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared to enter the workforce and command competitive salaries.
While the physical therapy salary in Arkansas may be slightly lower than the national average, the lower cost of living and the high demand for these professionals make it an attractive option for those considering this career path.
FAQs
Q: What is the average salary of a physical therapist in Arkansas?
A: As of May 2020, the average annual salary for a physical therapist in Arkansas was $84,540, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Q: How does the cost of living in Arkansas compare to the national average?
A: The cost of living in Arkansas is significantly lower than the national average, making it a financially attractive location for physical therapists.
Q: What factors can affect a physical therapist’s salary in Arkansas?
A: Several factors can affect a physical therapist’s salary in Arkansas, including the level of experience, specialization, location within the state, and the type of healthcare facility.
Q: Where do physical therapists in Arkansas earn the highest salaries?
A: Physical therapists in Arkansas tend to earn the highest salaries when working in home health care, with an average annual wage of $95,440.
Q: What are some renowned physical therapy programs in Arkansas?
A: The University of Central Arkansas offers a highly ranked physical therapy program, placing it among the nation’s top 15% of physical therapy schools, according to U.S. News & World Report.
