Sep 18, 2024

Highest Paying States for Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, and Respiratory Therapists

The salaries of healthcare professionals such as Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, and Respiratory Therapists can vary widely depending on the state. If you’re a travel therapist or considering becoming one, finding the highest paying states can significantly boost your earnings. As a travel healthcare staffing company, Aequor is dedicated to connecting travel therapists with positions that offer great pay across the country. Whether you’re just starting your travel therapy journey or looking for your next assignment, here are the top paying states for each profession according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Occupational Therapists (OTs)

Occupational Therapists help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. With the growing demand for rehabilitation services, especially in healthcare hubs, OTs are in high demand. Below are the annual mean salaries in the highest paying states, according to the BLS.

1. Nevada

Annual Mean Salary: $105,450

Why It’s Lucrative:

Nevada offers the highest salaries for OTs in the nation, driven by its rapidly growing healthcare sector and population. Las Vegas, in particular, offers high demand and competitive pay for occupational therapy services.

2. California

Annual Mean Salary: $98,450

Why It’s Lucrative: 

As one of the largest healthcare markets in the U.S., California offers plenty of opportunities for OTs in both urban and rural settings. The state’s high demand for rehabilitation services, combined with its higher cost of living, drives up wages.

3. New Jersey

Annual Mean Salary: $98,320

Why It’s Lucrative:

With proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, New Jersey’s healthcare providers pay top dollar for OTs. The state also has a strong healthcare infrastructure that supports high paying positions.

Physical Therapists (PTs)

Physical Therapists play a critical role in helping patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve physical function. The demand for PTs is rising across the U.S., especially in states with growing populations. Below are the annual mean salaries in the highest-paying states, according to the BLS.

1. Nevada

Annual Mean Salary: $105,550

Why It’s Lucrative: 

Nevada’s healthcare system is growing quickly, and its demand for PTs is rising, particularly in outpatient clinics and rehabilitation centers. The state offers top-tier salaries for physical therapists, particularly in metro areas like Las Vegas and Reno.

2. Alaska

Annual Mean Salary: $102,650

Why It’s Lucrative:

Alaska’s remote location and specific healthcare needs result in higher wages for PTs willing to work in less accessible areas. The high cost of living in Alaska results in competitive pay.

3. California

Annual Mean Salary: $99,920

Why It’s Lucrative:

California offers extensive opportunities for PTs due to its diverse population and healthcare needs. The state’s demand for specialized therapy services and its high cost of living contribute to competitive salaries.

Respiratory Therapists (RRTs)

Respiratory Therapists are essential in treating patients with breathing disorders and managing critical care needs. The demand for RRTs has surged due to the aging population and ongoing healthcare challenges. Below are the annual mean salaries in the highest paying states, according to the BLS.

1. California

Annual Mean Salary: $103,060

Why It’s Lucrative:

California offers the highest salaries for RRTs in the country, with the state’s large population and significant number of healthcare facilities driving demand. This high level of compensation reflects the critical role respiratory therapists play, particularly in areas with air quality challenges.

2. New York

Annual Mean Salary: $98,770

Why It’s Lucrative:

As one of the most densely populated states, New York provides numerous opportunities for RRTs in hospitals and clinics. The high demand for respiratory care, especially in large metro areas like NYC, leads to competitive wages.

3. District of Columbia

Annual Mean Salary: $95,240

Why It’s Lucrative:

The nation’s capital not only offers high salaries for RRTs but also a wide range of job opportunities in hospitals and government healthcare facilities. The cost of living is high, but the pay reflects the critical need for respiratory care in the area.

For OTs, PTs, and RRTs, these states offer the highest pay, making them prime destinations for therapists looking to maximize their earnings. In most instances, travel therapists stand to make more than their full time counterparts, so if you’re currently a travel therapist or considering transitioning into a travel role, these states are great options to explore. If you are a current travel therapist, or thinking about becoming one, Aequor can help you find lucrative positions in these top paying states, allowing you to grow your career while enjoying new experiences across the country. Browse open positions and get in touch with an Aequor recruiter today to learn more about how you can find higher paying travel therapy positions with outstanding benefits tailored to your career and lifestyle goals!

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