By: Natural Healers Staff
Updated: January 26, 2026
Physical Therapy Degree and Career Guide
Physical Therapist Salary by State
Physical Therapist Salaries in Michigan
PTs have many choices in Michigan, including whether to work in the more rural Upper Peninsula or the metropolitan Lower Peninsula. Salaries may reflect the difference, and come down to personal preference.
Michigan, like many other states, has an increasing demand for physical therapists due to an aging population, a growing emphasis on preventative care and a rise in sports-related injuries. They may also earn a competitive salary compared to the national average as the physical therapy profession is generally stable, with consistent demand across healthcare settings like hospitals, outpatient clinics and rehabilitation centers.
In this Article
Quick view
Michigan’s unique geography presents options for PTs based on personal preferences for community size, cost of living, job opportunities and lifestyle.
Benefits to Lower Peninsula
- Cities and higher population:
- The Lower Peninsula has larger cities and a higher population density, leading to more healthcare facilities and a broader range of job opportunities for PTs.
- Higher salaries:
- PTs in the Lower Peninsula, particularly in metropolitan areas like Detroit, may have the potential for higher salaries due to increased competition and demand.
- Advancement and professional development:
- Being in a more densely populated area, PTs in the Lower Peninsula may have more opportunities for continuing education, networking and career advancement.
Benefits to Upper Peninsula
- Community-centric:
- The Upper Peninsula is more rural and has smaller communities, which can be appealing for those who prefer a close-knit atmosphere. PTs in these areas often have a unique opportunity to develop strong relationships with their patients.
- Cost of living:
- Generally, the cost of living in the Upper Peninsula is lower compared to many parts of the Lower Peninsula, especially metropolitan areas like Detroit and Grand Rapids. This can make a PT’s salary go further.
- Outdoor lifestyle:
- The Upper Peninsula offers abundant outdoor activities, especially in the winter, which can be a significant draw for those who enjoy nature and outdoor sports.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says there are 6,700 people employed as physical therapists in Michigan. This equates to about one- and-one half people working in the profession per every 1,000 people living in the Great Lakes State. The median wage per hour is $48 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 10.9%.
Michigan offers PTs a wide range of unique industries and specialties to explore. The diverse economic landscape, from automotive manufacturing to professional sports, provides numerous opportunities for PTs to specialize and make a significant impact in their field.
- Automotive industry: Given Michigan’s role as a hub for the automotive industry, many PTs work with clients who suffer from workplace injuries related to manufacturing and assembly line work. They often provide rehabilitation for musculoskeletal injuries and ergonomic assessments to prevent further injuries.
- Sports and athletics: With several professional sports teams (like the Detroit Lions, Pistons, Red Wings and Tigers), as well as a strong college sports presence (University of Michigan and Michigan State University), there is a high demand for PTs specializing in sports-related injuries and rehabilitation.
Here are just five employers that represent a cross-section of Michigan’s healthcare landscape, offering PTs various career paths and specializations:
- McLaren Health Care, Multiple locations, MI.
- McLaren Health Care is a leading healthcare system with facilities across Michigan. It includes several hospitals, outpatient clinics and rehabilitation centers. Physical therapists working with McLaren have opportunities to specialize in various areas, including orthopedics, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, sports medicine and neurological therapy.
- Henry Ford Health, Lansing, Ann Arbor and Detroit area, MI.
- Henry Ford Health is another major healthcare provider in Michigan with a strong reputation for quality care. It operates multiple hospitals, outpatient facilities, and specialty clinics. PTs at Henry Ford Health can work in diverse settings, including sports medicine, orthopedics and neurological rehabilitation.
- Corewell Health, Multiple locations, MI.
- Beaumont Health and Spectrum Health merged with Corewell Health, operating several hospitals and outpatient clinics throughout the Detroit and Grand Rapids (among other) metropolitan areas. Corewell offers a wide range of specialties for PTs, from orthopedics to pediatrics, and is known for its advanced medical technology and focus on research and innovation.
- University of Michigan Health, Multiple locations, MI.
- The University of Michigan Health System, part of the University of Michigan, is a leading academic medical center. It offers PTs the opportunity to work in a research-oriented environment with access to cutting-edge treatments and technologies. PTs can engage in clinical research and work with a diverse patient population, including complex cases.
- Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Grand Rapids and other locations, MI.
- Mary Free Bed is a renowned rehabilitation hospital in Grand Rapids, specializing in comprehensive rehabilitation services. It has a strong reputation for its specialized programs, including spinal cord injury rehabilitation, stroke recovery and pediatric rehabilitation. PTs at Mary Free Bed can work in a collaborative environment focused on rehabilitation and recovery.
Salary stats for Michigan
Physical therapists plays a significant role in Michigan’s overall economy and job market, impacting multiple sectors and contributing to the state’s healthcare industry.
Physical therapy is a crucial component of the broader healthcare system, as it helps reduce healthcare costs by providing preventive care, reducing the need for surgery and aiding in faster recovery from injuries and illnesses. This contributes to a more efficient healthcare system.
By helping patients recover from injuries and regain mobility, physical therapy also reduces disability-related costs. This has a direct impact on the economy by allowing individuals to return to work sooner, contributing to workforce productivity and reducing the need for long-term disability benefits.
Median physical therapist salary in Michigan
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for physical therapists in Michigan is around $98,960. Entry-level physical therapists may earn less, while experienced practitioners in high-demand areas can earn significantly more.
Compare Michigan’s median annual PT salary with the median national salary for physical therapists—which is is $101,020 a year—and you can see Michigan is just slightly below the national median. But because Michigan has a lower and very affordable cost of living in many areas, this salary actually is quite comfortable.
Physical Therapists
10%$75,440
25%$82,790
50%$98,960Median
75%$106,410
90%$118,940
Median Hourly Wage$48
Job growth10.9%
Total Employment7,800
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Niles, MI | $104,070 | $83,900 | $110,290 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | $103,660 | $80,940 | $116,780 |
| Saginaw, MI | $103,550 | $73,100 | $137,280 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | $100,300 | $75,650 | $119,940 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI | $99,160 | $77,670 | $106,370 |
| Monroe, MI | $99,000 | $60,600 | $127,050 |
| Lansing-East Lansing, MI | $98,860 | $64,240 | $126,210 |
| Flint, MI | $97,430 | $65,530 | $112,830 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage, MI | $97,100 | $77,540 | $128,340 |
| Jackson, MI | $97,060 | $79,000 | $108,840 |
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 Michigan
The salary range for PT professionals in Michigan typically spans from $75,440 for the lowest 10% in the field to $118,940 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, location and time in the position.
Pay by metro area within the state of Michigan
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 Detroit, Grand Rapids or Lansing, 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. Michigan and its metro areas do not rank in the top 10 for employment or pay, according to the BLS.
Examples of salary range in the Upper Peninsula and Lower Peninsula of Michigan look like this:
Upper Peninisula non-metropolitan area’s median annual salary range is $77,460 to $106,510 with $91,580 as the median. Lower Peninsula salary range for the metropolitan area around Grand Rapids is $75,880 to $107,520 with $99,220 as the median pay. The Detroit-Dearborn area median range was $76,060 to $118,400 with $99,550 listed as the median.
Salary growth and job outlook
Overall, job growth for physical therapists in Michigan 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 your salary in Michigan
In Michigan, like nearly all other states and regions, various factors can affect your pay. Here are some key factors in how you may be paid as a PT in Michigan:
- Education and credentials:
- Higher levels of education and specific PT certifications or credentials may lead to better-paying jobs. Holding a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree may be required, but additional certifications or specializations (like orthopedics, sports or geriatrics) may lead to higher salaries due to the specialized knowledge you bring to the job as well as demand for the specialty.
- Location within Michigan:
- Urban areas like Detroit, Grand Rapids or Ann Arbor might offer higher wages due to higher living costs and greater job demand, while rural areas may offer lower pay.
- Company size and reputation:
- Larger hospitals or rehabilitation centers or those with a well-established reputation might offer higher wages and better benefits compared to smaller clinics.
- Performance and skillset:
- Physical therapists who specialize in a particular area, or have demonstrated exceptional performance or unique skills may experience raises, bonuses or other financial incentives.
- Market demand:
- If there’s high demand for specific area of specialty or PTs in general, employers might offer higher wages to attract and retain talent.
- Cost of living adjustments:
- Employers in areas with a higher cost of living might offer higher pay to help offset the expenses employees face.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly as a PT in Michigan?
If you suspect you’re being paid less or unfairly in your job as a physical therapist in Michigan, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:
- Research industry standards: Start by gathering information about the typical salary range for physical therapists in Michigan. You can use resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, Payscale or the American Physical Therapy Association to understand standards for your job title, level of experience and location.
- Review your employment agreement: Check your employment contract to understand the terms and conditions related to your pay, bonuses, raises and other benefits. Are your benefits considered part of your compensation package? This can help you determine if your compensation aligns with what was promised.
- Document any discrepancies: If you notice discrepancies in your pay or suspect discrimination, document everything. Keep records of your salary, any changes and relevant communication with your employer about compensation.
- Talk to your supervisor or HR: If you feel comfortable, discuss your concerns with your supervisor or HR department. Be specific about your concerns and provide evidence or data to support your case. A constructive conversation might resolve misunderstandings or lead to adjustments.
- Know your legal rights and protections: If you believe you are facing discrimination or unequal pay due to protected characteristics, 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 Michigan, you can contact the Michigan Department of Civil Rights for guidance.
If all the above fail to resolve the issue:
- Seek legal advice: If your discussions with your employer don’t resolve the issue, consider consulting with an employment lawyer. They can provide legal advice specific to your situation and help determine whether you have a valid case for unequal pay or discrimination.
- File a complaint: If you have evidence of discrimination or unfair treatment and internal avenues don’t resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Michigan Department of Civil Rights.
- Seek employment elsewhere: If you continue to face unfair treatment and your employer doesn’t address the issue, you might consider looking for other job opportunities where you feel valued and fairly compensated.
Education and training
To become a practicing Physical Therapist (PT) in Michigan, you need to meet certain educational and licensing requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Earn your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
To become a licensed physical therapist, you must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This is a graduate-level program that typically takes about three years to complete.
2. Pass the NPTE and get licensed for Michigan
After earning your DPT, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
Once you pass the NPTE, you need to apply for licensure in Michigan through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This process may include a criminal background check and additional fees. Make sure to check LARA’s website for specific application requirements and deadlines.
3. Keep up on your continuing education units
To maintain your PT license in Michigan, you need to complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) every renewal cycle. The specific requirements can vary, so be sure to check with LARA for the current guidelines.
4. About Michigan unions
While unions are common in some healthcare sectors, like nursing, they are less common among physical therapists. In Michigan, there isn’t a widely recognized union specifically for physical therapists. However, some PTs might be part of larger healthcare or hospital worker unions, like the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) or the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
Cost of living considerations
The cost of living in Michigan is generally considered affordable compared to other parts of the U.S., but it varies based on factors like location, housing, transportation and lifestyle choices. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the cost of living in Michigan:
- Housing:
- Michigan offers a wide range of housing options, from affordable apartments to high-end homes. The cost of housing is typically lower than in major coastal cities like New York or San Francisco. Urban areas like Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids tend to have higher housing costs than rural or suburban areas. However, even in these cities, housing is often more affordable than in other major U.S. cities.
- Utilities and transportation:
- Utility costs in Michigan are generally in line with or slightly below the national average. This includes electricity, heating, water and internet. Michigan is a car-centric state, so transportation costs can be higher if you rely on personal vehicles. Gasoline prices in Michigan are typically around the national average, but auto insurance can be higher than in other states. Public transportation options vary by city, with some areas like Detroit and Grand Rapids offering bus services and limited light rail.
- Healthcare and education:
- Healthcare costs in Michigan are generally within the national range, with variations depending on your insurance coverage and healthcare needs. As far as education, Michigan has a mix of public and private educational institutions. Public education through high school is generally accessible and affordable, while college and university tuition costs vary. Michigan has several notable universities, such as the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, where tuition costs may be higher.
- Taxes:
- Michigan has a flat state income tax rate of 4.25%, which is relatively low compared to some other states. Property taxes and sales taxes are also generally in line with or lower than the national average.
Michigan professional associations for PTs
In Michigan, there are a couple of state-specific professional groups that physical therapists can join for networking, education, advocacy and career development. Here are two key groups for PTs in Michigan:
APTA Michigan: The APTA Michigan group is the state chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). It provides resources and support specifically for physical therapists in Michigan. Membership offers continuing education opportunities, professional development resources and networking events. They also advocate for policies and legislation that support the interests of physical therapists and the broader physical therapy profession in Michigan.
Michigan Occupational Therapy Association (Mi-OTA): While Mi-OTA is primarily focused on occupational therapy, it has overlaps with physical therapy, particularly in collaborative settings. Some physical therapists work closely with occupational therapists and may find value in engaging with Mi-OTA for interprofessional networking and shared advocacy efforts. Mi-OTA offers resources, conferences and events that could be relevant for PTs interested in broadening their professional connections.
This physical therapist salary guide for Michigan 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.