By: Natural Healers Staff
Updated: January 26, 2026
Physical Therapy Degree and Career Guide
Physical Therapist Salary by State
Physical Therapist Salaries in New York
Physical therapists in New York play a crucial role in the state’s healthcare system, providing essential services for patients with a wide range of conditions and needs—and they may earn a healthy salary by doing so.
Physical therapists play a significant role in New York state’s healthcare workforce. As with other states, New York’s physical therapy professionals work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, nursing homes and home health care. The demand for physical therapy services in New York is influenced by several factors, including the state’s large and diverse population, a significant aging demographic and the prevalence of chronic conditions and injuries.
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There are 15,560 people employed as a physical therapist in New York says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Not surprisingly, this makes the state the fourth largest employer of PTs in the country, says the BLS. The median wage per hour in NY is $48 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 10.9%.
The demand for physical therapists in New York is generally high, driven by factors like the aging population, the growing need for rehabilitation services and the emphasis on preventive healthcare. This demand is expected to continue growing in the coming years, aligning with national trends. These employers represent some of the largest and most prestigious healthcare systems in New York, providing a variety of opportunities for physical therapists in different settings and specialties:
- NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Westchester and Putnam Counties, NY.
- NewYork-Presbyterian is one of the largest healthcare systems in New York, with multiple hospitals and facilities across the state. It offers physical therapists opportunities to work in acute care, outpatient rehabilitation and specialized units, such as cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and orthopedics.
- Mount Sinai Health System, Multiple locations, NY.
- Mount Sinai is a leading healthcare system with several hospitals and outpatient clinics in New York City. It provides physical therapists with a range of opportunities, from acute care in its hospitals to outpatient and rehabilitation settings.
- NYU Langone Health, New York, Brooklyn, NY.
- NYU Langone is another major healthcare system in New York City with hospitals and outpatient facilities. It is known for its innovative research and specialized medical services, providing physical therapists a diverse range of practice settings, including acute care, orthopedics, neurology and sports medicine.
- Northwell Health, Multiple locations, NY.
- Northwell Health is the largest healthcare system in New York State, with facilities across Long Island, Westchester County and New York City. It offers a variety of positions for physical therapists in hospitals, rehabilitation centers and outpatient clinics. Northwell also has a strong focus on medical research and innovation, providing additional opportunities for specialized work.
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, NY.
- MSKCC is a world-renowned cancer treatment and research center in New York City. It employs physical therapists to work with cancer patients, focusing on rehabilitation and improving quality of life during and after cancer treatment. This specialized environment offers unique opportunities for PTs interested in oncology rehabilitation.
PTs working in less populated regions of New York may benefit from lower housing costs and other expenses, potentially leading to a more favorable cost-to-salary ratio.
Salary statistics for New York
One unique quality about physical therapist salaries in New York is the impact of location within the state. New York is geographically and economically diverse, with significant differences in cost of living and salary potential depending on the area.
Specifically, PTs in New York City and surrounding urban areas generally earn higher salaries compared to those in upstate or rural regions of New York. This variation is largely driven by the higher cost of living in New York City, which includes housing, transportation and other expenses. Additionally, urban areas tend to have more healthcare facilities, hospitals and private practices that offer competitive compensation packages to attract skilled physical therapists.
Median physical therapist salary in New York
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for physical therapists in New York is around $99,430, with variations 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 New York’s median annual PT salary with the median national salary for physical therapists—which is is $101,020 a year—and surprisingly, considering New York’s cost of living, you can see the state’s median wage is below the national median.
Physical Therapists
10%$66,680
25%$79,450
50%$99,430Median
75%$114,410
90%$130,350
Median Hourly Wage$48
Job growth10.9%
Total Employment15,810
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ | $105,470 | $76,590 | $137,320 |
| Kingston, NY | $101,220 | $76,350 | $133,850 |
| Glens Falls, NY | $95,200 | $65,340 | $113,360 |
| Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh, NY | $93,330 | $65,940 | $124,210 |
| Binghamton, NY | $89,510 | $69,000 | $114,400 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY | $88,880 | $64,410 | $108,310 |
| Syracuse, NY | $88,850 | $61,020 | $119,000 |
| Ithaca, NY | $88,600 | $61,420 | $119,360 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY | $88,340 | $64,030 | $106,930 |
| Watertown-Fort Drum, NY | $85,140 | $69,000 | $109,570 |
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 physical therapist working in New York
The salary ranges for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in New York State can vary depending on several factors, including experience, location, type of employer and area of specialty. Here’s a general overview of the salary ranges for PTs and PTAs in New York from the BLS:
Physical therapists (PTs):
- Entry-level PTs: Newly graduated physical therapists in New York typically start with salaries ranging from about $63,000 to $78,000 annually. This can vary based on location, with New York City and surrounding areas generally offering higher starting salaries.
- Mid-level PTs: As PTs gain experience, salaries can increase to a range of $78,000 to $113,000 or more. This range accommodates those with several years of experience and possibly some specialization or additional certifications.
- Senior-level PTs: Physical therapists with significant experience, specialized skills or in supervisory roles can earn upwards of $130,350. Those in managerial or specialized positions, such as sports therapy or orthopedics, may earn more.
Physical therapist assistants (PTAs):
- Entry-level PTAs: Starting salaries for PTAs in New York are generally in the range of $31,000 to $46,000. Like PTs, PTAs in urban areas such as New York City tend to earn higher salaries.
- Mid-level PTAs: With experience, PTAs can earn between $46,000 and $72,000, depending on the work setting and additional skills or responsibilities.
- Senior-level PTAs: Experienced PTAs, particularly those in leadership roles or specialized fields, can earn salaries ranging from $72,000 to $81,000 or more.
Pay by metro area within the state of New York
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 an industry hub, say for example you work in a city that has several high profile healthcare or rehabilitation facilities, 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, and New York doesn’t register in the top 10. However, the BLS does report that the New York-Newark-Jersey City metro area takes the #1 spot for highest employment of PTs in the country.
Some median salaries for PTs in specific New York metro areas includes:
- New York City: $104,010
- Binghampton: $89,850
- Syracuse: $86,320
- Albany: $88,440
- Rochester: $79,560
Salary growth and job outlook
Job growth for physical therapists in New York is driven by a combination of demographic, healthcare and societal factors. Here’s an overview of what fuels job growth for PTs in New York:
Aging population: New York, like much of the United States, has an aging population. As people live longer, there’s an increased need for physical therapy services to address age-related conditions, such as arthritis, mobility issues, joint replacements and fall prevention.
Chronic conditions: The prevalence of chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular diseases contributes to the need for physical therapy. PTs play a critical role in managing and improving quality of life for patients with these conditions, which leads to steady job growth.
Rehabilitation and recovery: New York has a significant number of hospitals, rehabilitation centers and outpatient clinics. The focus on rehabilitation, both post-surgery and after acute injuries or illnesses, creates ongoing demand for physical therapists.
Sports and fitness culture: New York is home to professional sports teams, collegiate sports and an active fitness culture. This leads to a consistent need for physical therapists specializing in sports and orthopedics to work with athletes, both amateur and professional.
Healthcare system expansion: New York’s large and diverse healthcare system continues to grow, with new hospitals, clinics and healthcare facilities opening across the state. This expansion provides additional job opportunities for physical therapists.
Preventive care and wellness: There’s a growing emphasis on preventive care and overall wellness, with physical therapy playing a key role. PTs are increasingly involved in preventive care programs, education and fitness, driving job growth in various settings.
Technological advancements: Advancements in medical technology, such as telehealth and specialized rehabilitation equipment, are changing the way physical therapists deliver care. This innovation creates new opportunities and can drive demand for PTs with expertise in these areas.
With these key factors in mind, here’s what the BLS anticipates as job growth over the next decade for physical therapists in general:
10.9%
Job growth for physical therapists through 2034 according to the BLS
Factors that may affect physical therapist salaries in NY
In New York, several unique factors can influence the salary of a physical therapist (PT). These factors include geographical location, experience, specialization, work setting and the type of employer, among others. Here’s a closer look at what can impact a PT’s salary in New York:
- Experience and education:
- Years of experience: PTs with more experience typically command higher salaries. This reflects not only their expertise but also their ability to handle complex cases and lead teams.
Advanced degrees and certifications: Additional education or specialized certifications can lead to higher salaries. For example, a PT with a specialization in orthopedics, sports medicine or geriatrics might earn more than a generalist. - Work setting:
- Hospitals vs. outpatient clinics: PTs working in major hospitals or academic medical centers might earn more than those in smaller outpatient clinics. Hospitals often have more resources and higher patient volume.
Specialized facilities: Rehabilitation centers or sports facilities might offer higher salaries due to the specialized skills required. - Employer type:
- Public vs. private sector: PTs working for large healthcare systems, government agencies or academic institutions might earn different salaries compared to those working in private practices or non-profit organizations.
Union membership: In some cases, PTs who are part of unions might have higher salaries due to negotiated contracts and benefits. - Demand and competition:
- Supply and demand: The level of demand for PTs in a specific region or specialty can affect salary. High demand with limited supply often leads to higher salaries.
Economic conditions within the state: The overall economic health of a region can impact salary levels, with more robust economies supporting higher wages. - Other things to consider:
- Benefits and perks: Beyond salary, benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans and paid time off can affect overall compensation. Some employers might offer bonuses or profit-sharing, influencing the total compensation package.
Continuing education and professional development: Employers who invest in professional development and provide opportunities for advancement might offer higher compensation to attract top talent.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly in New York?
Determining whether you’re paid fairly as a physical therapist in New York or any other state for that matter, involves a combination of research, understanding industry trends and knowing your employer’s wage and benefit policy. Here’s a guide to help you assess your pay fairness:
- Look for industry reports that provide average salaries for physical therapists in New York specifically. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is a good source, offering national and state-level data on median and average salaries for PTs. You might leverage state labor data that details pay for specific regions and job titles.
- Does where you live in NY impact your salary? PTs in major urban areas like New York City or Manhattan may often earn more due to higher living costs and demand.
- Factor in your credentials, experience and area of specialty. More experience and education generally translates to higher pay. Are you specializing in an in-demand area for New York? Specializing in orthopedic, neurological or pediatric PT in the state may impact your salary.
- Discuss salaries with trusted colleagues to learn if your pay is on a par with what they earn, especially if they do the same job or work in a similar facility. You can also join physical therapy associations, like the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), who maintain industry salary reports and may provide networking opportunities. This can give you a sense of industry standards.
Education and training for NY PTs
To become a licensed physical therapist (PT) in New York State, you must complete a rigorous education and training process that includes earning a relevant degree, gaining clinical experience and passing a national licensing examination. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the education and training requirements in New York:
Earn a bachelor’s degree
The first step toward becoming a physical therapist is earning a bachelor’s degree. Although the degree doesn’t have to be in physical therapy, it should include courses in biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics and other sciences. Some students major in related fields like kinesiology, exercise science or health science to fulfill prerequisites for physical therapy school.
Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
To practice as a PT in New York, you must complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program from an accredited institution. DPT programs typically take three years and include a combination of classroom coursework, lab work and clinical experiences. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including:
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Musculoskeletal and neurological systems
- Kinesiology and biomechanics
- Therapeutic exercises and techniques
- Clinical reasoning and diagnosis
- Ethics and professional conduct
In addition to classroom studies, DPT programs require clinical rotations where students gain hands-on experience in different physical therapy settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers and schools.
Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
After completing a DPT program, aspiring PTs must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). This exam assesses your knowledge and competence in physical therapy and is a requirement for licensure in New York State.
Obtain state licensure specific to New York
To practice in New York, you must obtain a license from the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions. The licensure process typically involves submitting an application, providing proof of education, passing the NPTE and meeting other state-specific requirements such as a background check and jurisprudence exam. Once licensed, you must follow state regulations and ethical standards for practicing physical therapy.
Complete continuing education requirements
Licensed PTs in New York must complete continuing education to maintain their license. The New York State Education Department requires 36 continuing education hours for license renewal, typically every three years. Continuing education helps PTs stay updated on the latest developments in physical therapy and maintain high professional standards.
Specialize (optional)
New York PTs may choose to pursue additional training or specializations in areas such as orthopedics, neurology, pediatrics, sports medicine or geriatrics. This can involve completing certification programs, residencies or fellowships to gain expertise in specific areas of physical therapy. Specializing may lead to higher salaries.
Cost of living considerations
The cost of living in New York varies depending on where you are in the state. Generally, the cost of living in New York City—specifically Manhattan, which is 179% higher than the rest of the state and 404% higher than the rest of the country—and its surrounding metropolitan areas is higher than in upstate and rural regions. This difference affects the relative affordability and quality of life for physical therapists, and any others, considering work or residence in New York.
Cost of living in New York City
New York City has one of the highest costs of living in the United States. This is driven by high housing costs, transportation expenses and other factors like food and entertainment. For PTs practicing in New York City, salaries also tend to be higher to compensate for the elevated cost of living, but this doesn’t necessarily translate to more disposable income.
Cost of living in upstate New York
Upstate New York, which includes cities like Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Albany, generally has a lower cost of living (0% to 5% less, says RentCafe) compared to New York City. This is due to lower housing costs, reduced transportation expenses (often due to less reliance on public transport) and overall lower consumer prices. For PTs, this can mean a more affordable lifestyle, even if salaries are somewhat lower than in the city.
Cost of living vs. physical therapy practice locations
In New York, the largest volume of facilities for PTs to practice is in the New York City metropolitan area. This includes hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics and sports medicine facilities. The high demand for physical therapy services in these urban areas drives salary levels, but it also corresponds with a higher cost of living.
New York professional associations for PTs and related fields
Here are some professional associations that physical therapists in NY can join. These associations are state-based, regional and national, and offer support, resources, networking and continuing education opportunities for physical therapists.
APTA New York (NYPTA): This is the New York State chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). NYPTA provides resources for PTs and PTAs in New York, including continuing education, networking opportunities, advocacy and annual conferences. The association also offers support for professional development within the state.
NYS Society of Orthopedic Surgeons (NYSSOS): Although primarily for orthopedic surgeons, PTs with a focus on orthopedics may find value in this group due to the collaborative relationship between orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists. It provides insight into trends that can be beneficial for orthopedic PTs.
New York State Occupational Therapy Association (NYSOTA): While this group primarily serves occupational therapists (OTs), it can be relevant for PTs who work closely with OTs or are interested in cross-disciplinary collaboration. NYSOTA offers education, advocacy and networking for occupational therapy professionals in New York.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT): This group focuses on orthopedic manual physical therapy. It provides resources and networking opportunities for PTs interested in manual therapy techniques and evidence-based practice in orthopedics.
This physical therapist salary guide for New York State aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview 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.