By: Natural Healers Staff
Updated: January 26, 2026
Physical Therapy Degree and Career Guide
Physical Therapist Salary by State
Physical Therapist Salaries in Illinois
With its healthcare, university-affiliated medical and sports institutions firmly in place, PTs in Illinois have options for their careers, and may enjoy great salaries while they practice.
Illinois has a variety of healthcare facilities where physical therapists can work, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, nursing homes and sports facilities. Chicago, being a major urban center, offers extensive opportunities in specialized fields like sports medicine and pediatrics.
Physical therapists in Illinois generally earn competitive salaries compared to the national average. However, compensation can vary based on location, experience and specialty.
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Opportunities and conditions for physical therapists can differ significantly between urban and rural areas in Illinois. While urban areas offer more diversity and possibly higher pay, rural areas may provide a different pace of life and unique challenges.
Beyond professional factors, consider Illinois’s general quality of life. The state offers cultural amenities and plenty of outdoor activities, but also has some regions with high crime rates and other social issues.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says there are 10,610 people employed as physical therapists in Illinois. They also report that this means the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area alone is the third highest employer of PTs in the U.S. The median wage per hour is $50 and the job growth for the coming decade is expected to be 10.9%, faster than all other careers combined.
Illinois offers PTs the opportunity to practice in specialties that are unique or in-demand in Illinois and the Chicago area:
- Sports: Chicago is home to multiple professional sports teams (Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks, Cubs and White Sox), as well as many collegiate and amateur sports programs. Physical therapists with a specialty in sports therapy can find opportunities to work with athletes, from high school teams to professional leagues, focusing on injury prevention, rehabilitation and performance enhancement.
- Performing arts: Given Chicago’s performing arts scene—including theaters, dance companies and musical ensembles—there’s a niche for physical therapists specializing in treating performers. These therapists understand the unique physical demands placed on dancers, actors and musicians, focusing on injury prevention, rehabilitation and performance optimization.
- Neurological rehabilitation: Chicago has several renowned medical centers and hospitals with specialized neurological departments. Physical therapists can work with patients recovering from strokes, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and other neurological conditions. Institutions like the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offer cutting-edge rehabilitation for neurological disorders, providing a unique environment for physical therapists to advance in this specialty.
These five employers offer a broad range of work experiences for physical therapists, allowing them to work in specialized fields, engage in innovative research and collaborate with other healthcare professionals:
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL.
- The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, formerly known as the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC), is a globally recognized leader in rehabilitation. It focuses on advanced research and innovative treatment for patients with neurological disorders, spinal cord injuries, strokes and more. Physical therapists here often work in multidisciplinary teams and have access to cutting-edge technology and techniques.
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL.
- Lurie Children’s Hospital is one of the top pediatric hospitals in the country, offering a wide range of services for children and adolescents. Physical therapists at Lurie often specialize in pediatric physical therapy, working with children with developmental delays, congenital conditions and post-surgical rehabilitation. The hospital’s comprehensive approach allows physical therapists to collaborate with other pediatric specialists.
- Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL.
- Rush University Medical Center is a leading academic medical center in Chicago with a strong focus on research and education. Physical therapists at Rush can work in various specializations, including orthopedic, neurological and geriatric rehabilitation. As an academic institution, Rush provides ample opportunities for professional development and engagement in clinical studies.
- Athletico Physical Therapy, Greater Chicago area, IL.
- Athletico is a large network of outpatient physical therapy clinics. This organization focuses on sports medicine, orthopedics and rehabilitation for a wide range of conditions. Physical therapists at Athletico can specialize in sports therapy, working with athletes from amateur to professional levels, and provide services in injury prevention, rehabilitation and performance enhancement.
- NorthShore University HealthSystem, Greater Chicago area, IL.
- NorthShore University HealthSystem is a comprehensive healthcare network with multiple hospitals and outpatient clinics in the Chicago area. NorthShore provides a variety of services, allowing physical therapists to specialize in areas like sports medicine, women’s health, vestibular rehabilitation and orthopedic therapy. With its extensive reach, NorthShore offers opportunities in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Salary stats for Illinois
Beyond direct economic contributions, physical therapy has significant indirect impacts on the economy by helping people recover from injuries or illnesses, enabling them to return to work and reducing the overall healthcare burden by promoting health and mobility.
Median physical therapist salary in Illinois
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for physical therapists in Illinois is around $103,380, higher than the national median. Entry-level physical therapists may earn less, while experienced practitioners in high-demand areas can earn significantly more.
Compare Illinois’ median annual PT salary with the median national salary for physical therapists—which is is $101,020 a year—and you can see Illinois is higher than the national median. But remember, Illinois also has metro areas where the cost of living is higher than the national average, which could significantly impact what you earn. While the majority of major cities have a lower cost of living or are right at the national average, Chicago’s cost of living is 14% higher than the national average, says RentCafe.
Physical Therapists
10%$82,590
25%$96,140
50%$103,380Median
75%$119,250
90%$140,670
Median Hourly Wage$50
Job growth10.9%
Total Employment10,390
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN | $104,200 | $82,840 | $151,020 |
| Springfield, IL | $101,230 | $82,200 | $133,600 |
| Peoria, IL | $101,140 | $78,570 | $133,830 |
| Rockford, IL | $100,900 | $74,780 | $129,990 |
| Bloomington, IL | $98,520 | $71,950 | $117,190 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | $97,800 | $76,740 | $126,220 |
| Kankakee, IL | $97,070 | $96,180 | $125,110 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Take a look at how other fields, such as PT assistant and various rehabilitation careers that are similar to physical therapists, fare as far as pay:
Salary ranges for PTs in Illinois
In Illinois, physical therapists generally earn salaries that align with or are slightly higher than the national median. Data from different salary surveys, but primarily the BLS, indicate that the typical range for Illinois is between $82,590 and $140,670, with variation based on several factors, which we will detail below.
Pay by metro area within the state of Illinois
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. As a rule, cities tend to pay better than less populated areas, and salary may be predicted by your work environment. For example, if you work in a large hospital, and your city is a healthcare hub such as Chicago, you may earn more. While Illinois cities don’t rank in the top 10 for PT pay, they are still above the national median.
PTs in Chicago earned a median of $103,270 and physical therapists in Springfield, IL, earned a healthy $107,380.
Even better, PTs in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area ranked third on the BLS’ top 10 list for highest employment of PTs in the U.S., which indicates Chicago is a key city for physical therapists to practice.
Salary growth and job outlook
The national projections for PT job outlook suggest strong growth, and Illinois-specific factors and demographic trends support this expectation.
Illinois has a robust healthcare infrastructure, particularly in cities like Chicago. This supports continued demand for physical therapy services.
Policies related to healthcare access, insurance coverage and scope of practice for physical therapists can influence job growth.
Overall economic conditions and healthcare budgets can impact hiring trends and demand for physical therapy.
Nevertheless, the BLS anticipates faster than average growth for physical therapy nationwide:
10.9%
Job growth for physical therapists through 2034 according to the BLS
Factors that affect salary in Illinois
Here are some key factors that may affect your pay in Illinois, or anywhere else for that matter:
- Years experience:
- Generally, the more experience you have, the higher your salary. Those with 10 or more years of experience often earn significantly more than those just starting out in the field.
- Education:
- Advanced degrees or certifications in specialized areas (e.g., orthopedics, pediatrics or geriatrics) may lead to higher salaries.
- Location:
- Urban areas like Chicago may offer higher salaries due to the higher cost of living and increased demand, whereas rural areas might offer lower salaries.
- Employer:
- The type of facility where you work also plays a role. Hospitals, private practices, outpatient centers, schools or home healthcare all have different pay structures.
- Performance:
- A strong reputation for excellent patient care or achieving specialized outcomes can lead to higher earnings.
- Demand:
- Regions with a high demand for physical therapists might offer more competitive salaries. Illinois has a varied market, with some areas having a greater need for physical therapy services.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly as a PT in Illinois?
If you suspect you are not being paid the same wages as someone else doing the same work, carrying the same client load or with less experience than you, you do have steps you can take in the state of Illinois. But before you hire an employment attorney or file complaints with state labor and industry websites, consider these options first:
- Research industry standards: Start by gathering information about the salary range for physical therapists in Illinois. You can use resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, Payscale, Indeed or the American Physical Therapy Association to understand standards for your job title, level of experience and location.
- Review your employment contract: Check your employment contract to make sure you know all the terms and conditions related to your pay, bonuses, raises and other benefits. If your benefits are considered part of your compensation package, you may receive less in actual dollars, but have to fork out less for healthcare so your compensation balances.
- Document any findings: If you notice discrepancies in your pay or suspect discrimination, document everything. Keep records of your paychecks and any written or oral communication with your employer or HR department about compensation.
- Talk to HR: Discuss your concerns with your supervisor or HR manager. HR typically understands the nuances of pay, titles, salary ranges and any implication in between. A constructive conversation might resolve your issues, or have them explained.
- Know your legal rights and protections: If you still believe you are facing unequal pay, you have legal rights. In the U.S., laws like the Equal Pay Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibit discrimination in compensation. In Illinois, the Department of Labor provides a confidential online complaint form to file reports if you have wage issues that violate your protected rights. They will review complaints, contact your employer and walk you through the hearing process. They also have a mediation and conciliation option.
Education and training
Becoming a physical therapist in Illinois involves several key steps, which are consistent with the national pathway for becoming a PT in the U.S. These steps influence salary because they determine the qualifications, skills and experience you bring to the role. Here’s a guide to the basic steps and how they can affect salary:
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree
Although physical therapy programs don’t typically require a specific undergraduate degree, it’s beneficial to pursue a relevant field like biology, kinesiology or health sciences. A strong academic background can help you gain admission to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
2. Earn your DPT
A Doctor of Physical Therapy is the standard degree for physical therapists in the U.S. These programs typically take about three years to complete and include classroom coursework, lab work and clinical rotations. A well-regarded DPT program can impact salary by providing a strong foundation, specialized skills and networking opportunities.
3. Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE)
After completing a DPT program, you must pass the NPTE, a standardized exam that assesses your knowledge and skills as a physical therapist. Successfully passing this exam is required for licensure in Illinois and elsewhere in the U.S.
4. Get licensed in Illinois
To practice in Illinois, you need to apply for and obtain a license from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). This process includes providing proof of education, exam results and other required documentation.
5. Maintain licensure and pursue continuing education
Illinois requires physical therapists to renew their licenses periodically, which involves completing continuing education credits. Keeping up with these requirements ensures you stay updated on the latest practices and may open doors to career growth and salary increases.
Cost of living considerations for Illinois
To get a comprehensive view of the cost of living for physical therapists in Illinois, consider the specific location where you plan to work and live. Chicago and its suburbs have a higher cost of living, while smaller cities and rural areas are generally more affordable. It’s essential to weigh these factors against salary expectations to ensure a good quality of life as a physical therapist in Illinois.
- Housing:
- Housing costs are a major factor in the cost of living. In Illinois, the cost of housing varies significantly between urban and rural areas. Chicago, being a major city, has a higher cost of living, especially in terms of housing, compared to smaller cities or rural areas. Rental and purchase prices in Chicago and its suburbs are generally higher than in other parts of the state.
- Utilities:
- The cost of utilities in Illinois is generally in line with the national average, but it can vary depending on location, the size of the home, and energy usage.
- Transportation:
- Illinois has a sophisticated transportation network, particularly in Chicago, with public transportation like the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority). Commuting costs will vary depending on the mode of transport and distance. Urban areas with public transit tend to offer lower transportation costs compared to more car-dependent rural areas.
- Taxes:
- Illinois has a flat state income tax rate, but property taxes can be high, especially in certain counties. Sales tax rates vary by location, with Chicago and some other areas having higher sales taxes.
Professional associations for PTs in Illinois
The following groups are important resources for networking, professional development, continuing education, advocacy and staying updated on state-specific regulations and industry trends. Here’s an overview of professional organization for PTs and PTAs in Illinois:
APTA Illinois: The Illinois Physical Therapy Association (IPTA) is the state chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association. It serves as the primary professional organization for physical therapists and physical therapy assistants in Illinois. The IPTA offers membership to PTs, PTAs and students. Membership includes resources and benefits such as career support and continuing education opportunities.
Illinois Occupational Therapy Association (ILOTA): The Illinois Occupational Therapy Association (ILOTA) is the leading organization representing occupational therapy professionals in Illinois. Membership provides access to various resources, including continuing education, networking opportunities and advocacy efforts.
This physical therapist salary guide for Illinois aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.