By: Natural Healers Staff
Updated: January 26, 2026
Physical Therapy Degree and Career Guide
Physical Therapist Salary by State
Physical Therapist Salaries in Indiana
PTs are important in Indiana, as they use their skills to help people improve mobility and manage chronic conditions. The salary they earn is also an important part of the job.
Indiana may not be the first state that comes to mind when considering career opportunities in physical therapy, but it offers a vibrant landscape for physical therapists (PTs). With competitive salaries, diverse job settings and a growing demand for healthcare services, Indiana has much to offer.
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Indiana has several factors that make it an appealing state for physical therapists:
- Growing healthcare industry: Indiana’s healthcare sector is expanding, with a focus on providing quality care to both urban and rural populations. This growth creates a demand for physical therapists across various settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics.
- Diverse job settings: Physical therapists in Indiana can work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers and schools. This variety allows PTs to choose environments that align with their interests and skills.
- Affordable cost of living: Indiana has a lower cost of living compared to many other states, which can make it easier for physical therapists to balance their salaries with living expenses. This affordability can attract PTs seeking a high quality of life without the high costs of larger states.
- Community-focused care: Indiana’s focus on community health and wellness promotes the use of physical therapy to improve quality of life. This emphasis on community-based care offers PTs opportunities to work closely with patients and make a significant impact.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says there are 4,840 people employed as physical therapists in Indiana. This equates to about one- and-one half people working in the profession per every 1,000 people living in the Hoosier State. The median wage per hour is $48 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 10.9%.
Indiana has some unique job roles that require physical therapy skills:
- Industrial rehabilitation: In manufacturing-heavy areas, PTs work in industrial rehabilitation, helping workers recover from workplace injuries and creating programs to prevent injuries.
- Community health programs: PTs are involved in community health initiatives, promoting physical fitness, injury prevention and wellness in various communities.
Here are five top employers and how they use PT talent and skills:
- IU Health (Indiana University Health), Indianapolis and multiple locations, IN.
- IU Health is the largest healthcare system in Indiana. It employs physical therapists across a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics and specialized rehabilitation centers. PTs at IU Health work with patients of all ages, providing rehabilitation, sports therapy and other services.
- Community Health Network, Multiple locations, Central IN.
- Community Health Network is a non-profit health system serving central Indiana. Physical therapists at Community Health Network work in acute care, outpatient settings, and community-based programs. They focus on rehabilitation, post-operative care and sports medicine.
- Ascension St. Vincent, Multiple locations, IN.
- Ascension St. Vincent is part of the larger Ascension health system. Physical therapists here work in hospitals and outpatient clinics, providing a range of services, from rehabilitation to specialized pediatric care.
- Franciscan Health, Carmel and Indianapolis, IN.
- Franciscan Health is another major healthcare system in Indiana. Physical therapists at Franciscan Health work in acute care, outpatient clinics and community health programs, helping patients recover from surgeries, manage chronic conditions, and improve mobility.
- Eskenazi Health, Indianapolis, IN.
- Eskenazi Health is a public hospital system in Indianapolis. Physical therapists at Eskenazi Health focus on community-based care, providing rehabilitation services to a diverse patient population, including those from underserved communities.
Indiana’s growing healthcare industry, coupled with its affordability and diverse job opportunities, makes it an attractive destination for PTs.
Salary statistics for Indiana
Physical therapists in Indiana play a crucial role in various healthcare settings. Here are some common uses for PTs in the state:
- Sports medicine and athletic training: Indiana has a strong sports culture, with high school and college sports playing a significant role. Physical therapists work with athletes and trainers to prevent injuries, aid in recovery and improve performance.
- Geriatric care: Indiana’s aging population creates a demand for physical therapists who specialize in geriatric care. PTs help seniors maintain mobility, manage chronic conditions and improve their quality of life.
- Pediatric Therapy: Physical therapists also work in pediatric settings, such as schools or specialized clinics, helping children with developmental disorders, injuries or other conditions that affect mobility and function.
Median physical therapist salary in Indiana
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for physical therapists in Indiana is around $99,310, depending on location, experience and specialization. Entry-level physical therapists may earn less, while experienced practitioners in high-demand areas can earn significantly more.
Compare Indiana’s median annual PT salary with the median national salary for physical therapists—which is is $101,020 a year—and you can see Indiana is just below the median national salary. However, you should remember that Indiana has a lower cost of living in general.
Physical Therapists
10%$69,990
25%$80,270
50%$99,310Median
75%$107,790
90%$125,090
Median Hourly Wage$48
Job growth10.9%
Total Employment5,180
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elkhart-Goshen, IN | $102,670 | $73,350 | $123,610 |
| Kokomo, IN | $101,330 | $73,850 | $116,030 |
| Indianapolis-Carmel-Greenwood, IN | $99,930 | $65,780 | $125,340 |
| Muncie, IN | $99,420 | $70,500 | $118,650 |
| South Bend-Mishawaka, IN-MI | $99,290 | $74,950 | $123,590 |
| Fort Wayne, IN | $98,620 | $69,990 | $127,100 |
| Evansville, IN | $97,590 | $71,410 | $120,430 |
| Bloomington, IN | $96,820 | $71,710 | $122,400 |
| Terre Haute, IN | $94,920 | $67,250 | $137,370 |
| Lafayette-West Lafayette, IN | $88,930 | $62,500 | $121,150 |
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 salaries compare for fields that are similar to physical therapists:
Salary range for a PT in Indiana
The salary range for PT professionals in Indiana typically spans from $69,990 for the lowest 10% in the field to $125,090 for the highest 10% in the field per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration the other factors such as experience, education and time in the position.
Pay by metro area within the state of Indiana
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is a healthcare hub such as indianapolis or Carmel, pay may be more competitive. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as highest paying cities in the U.S.
As you can see, California takes nine of the top 10 spots for pay. If you consider the highest metro areas within the U.S. state for employment levels of PTs, you may find it surprising that the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, Illinois-Indiana-Wisconsin metro area ranks #3 highest for employment of PTs in the country.
Salary growth and job outlook
Overall, job growth for physical therapists in Indiana is strong, driven by an aging population, increased healthcare access, preventive care emphasis, expanding scope of practice and growth in outpatient services. These factors create a promising environment for physical therapists seeking job security, career growth and diverse work settings.
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 may affect physical therapist salaries in Indiana
Your salary as a physical therapist in Indiana can be influenced by various factors, including experience, education, work setting, demand and supply and broader economic trends. Here are some key elements that can impact a PT’s salary in Indiana:
- Experience and education:
- The more experience you have as a PT, the higher your salary may be. Employers generally reward seasoned professionals who bring valuable skills and expertise. Holding a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is also desirable, but additional certifications or specializations (like orthopedics, sports or geriatrics) may lead to higher salaries due to the specialized knowledge and skills you bring to the job.
- Your work setting:
- Salaries may vary based on the work setting. Hospitals might offer higher salaries due to the complexity of cases, while outpatient clinics may offer more flexibility but with potentially lower pay. Indiana has both urban and rural areas, and salaries may also vary depending on where you work. Urban centers like Indianapolis might offer higher salaries due to increased demand and cost of living, while rural areas might have lower pay but a lower cost of living.
- Demand and supply:
- The demand for physical therapists in a specific area can affect salaries. Higher demand in areas with fewer PTs can lead to better compensation packages. Trends in the broader healthcare industry, such as a focus on preventive care or outpatient services, can also drive demand for PTs and influence salaries.
- Area of specialty:
- Physical therapists who specialize in a particular area, such as sports medicine, orthopedics, geriatrics or neurological rehabilitation, may command higher salaries due to their specialized skills.
- Economic factors:
- Indiana’s economy can indirectly impact PT salaries. A strong economy might lead to more investment in healthcare and higher salaries due to increased demand. Conversely, economic downturns can reduce funding for healthcare, potentially affecting salaries.
- Cost of living:
- The cost of living in Indiana is generally lower than in many other states, especially compared to major coastal states. This lower cost of living may impact salaries, as employers might offer lower wages to reflect the reduced living expenses. Although the cost of living may be lower, other factors like housing costs, transportation and utilities can still vary across the state. The quality of life and overall expenses may affect how much you need to earn to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly in Indiana?
While the Indiana Department of Labor does not monitor salary fairness for physical therapists, it, and other agencies, ensure compliance with labor laws and employee rights. If you suspect unfair compensation or wage discrimination, you can file complaints or seek legal advice to address these concerns. Understanding labor laws and researching industry benchmarks can help you assess whether you’re being paid fairly as a physical therapist in Indiana.
First, consider these steps:
- Research salary ranges for physical therapists in Indiana through resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professional associations or salary websites.
- Compare your salary with industry benchmarks and data to understand typical compensation for PTs in your area and with your level of experience.
- Review your employment contract to ensure it aligns with state and federal labor laws and that you’re receiving the compensation you agreed upon.
- If you’re concerned about wage fairness, consulting with your employer’s human resources department or a labor attorney can help clarify your rights and the steps to take.
Education and training
To become a physical therapist in Indiana, you must follow a specific education path that involves obtaining a doctoral degree in physical therapy, completing licensure requirements and meeting continuing education standards. Here’s a breakdown of the education and certification path to become a PT in Indiana:
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree
Before pursuing a DPT degree, you need to earn a bachelor’s degree. While there is no specific undergraduate major required, it’s beneficial to choose a field related to health or sciences, such as biology, kinesiology or exercise science. Make sure to complete prerequisite courses commonly required for DPT programs, which often include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
2. Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program
The next step is to earn a DPT degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). DPT programs typically last three years and include classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experiences. During the DPT program, you will cover topics like:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Kinesiology
- Pathology
- Rehabilitation techniques
- Therapeutic modalities
- Patient care and communication
3. Complete clinical experience
As part of the DPT program, you will complete clinical rotations in various physical therapy settings. These clinical experiences allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments and gain hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed physical therapists.
4. Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
After completing the DPT program, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). The NPTE is a comprehensive exam that assesses your knowledge and skills to ensure you’re qualified to practice physical therapy.
5. Obtain a license to practice in Indiana
Once you pass the NPTE, you must apply for a license to practice physical therapy in Indiana. This process involves:
- Submitting an application to the Indiana Physical Therapy Committee, part of the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA).
- Providing documentation of your DPT degree and NPTE results.
- Completing a background check.
- Paying the applicable licensing fees.
6. Fulfill continuing education requirements
To maintain your license as a physical therapist in Indiana, you must complete continuing education (CE) requirements. The specific number of hours and the type of CE activities vary, but they generally include attending courses, workshops, or conferences that focus on physical therapy practice, ethics or related topics.
Cost of living considerations
Cost of living considerations are crucial for physical therapists (PTs) planning to work in Indiana. While Indiana has a generally lower cost of living compared to coastal states, certain factors still affect living expenses and quality of life. Let’s explore key cost of living aspects that physical therapists should consider when assessing Indiana as a place to work and live.
- Housing:
- Housing costs are a significant component of the cost of living. In Indiana, these costs are generally lower than the national average, but they vary depending on location. Urban areas like Indianapolis or Carmel may have higher housing prices compared to smaller cities or rural areas. Renting can be more affordable in Indiana compared to larger cities in other states.
- Utilities and transportation:
- Indiana’s utility costs, including electricity, gas, water and internet, tend to be moderate. Factors like weather conditions and energy sources can impact utility costs. Indiana has a mix of urban and rural areas, which affects transportation costs. Urban areas offer public transportation, but many people rely on personal vehicles. Gasoline prices are generally lower than in coastal states, contributing to a more affordable cost of living.
- Food:
- The cost of food and groceries in Indiana is relatively affordable compared to other states. This affordability helps PTs maintain a budget-friendly lifestyle.
- Healthcare and health insurance:
- As healthcare professionals, PTs in Indiana may have access to employer-provided health insurance plans. The cost of healthcare, including insurance premiums, deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses, can vary.
- Education and childcare:
- For PTs with families, the cost of education and childcare is an important consideration.
Indiana has a mix of public and private schools, with public education generally being more affordable. The cost of higher education in the state is often lower than in other parts of the country. Childcare costs can vary depending on the type of care and location. Larger cities may have higher childcare costs, while smaller towns and rural areas tend to be more affordable.
Indiana PT professional associations
Two professional associations for physical therapists that are specific to Indiana or regions in the state include:
APTA Indiana: This is the Indiana state chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). INAPTA represents physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students in Indiana. It provides professional development, advocacy, networking, and resources for physical therapists within the state.
Indiana Occupational Therapy Association: Though not specific to physical therapy, the Indiana Occupational Therapy Association’s (IOTA) mission is to support, educate and empower its members, while advocating for the profession and the clients they serve both in the state and at a national level.
This physical therapist salary guide for Indiana 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.