By: Natural Healers Staff
Updated: January 26, 2026
Physical Therapy Degree and Career Guide
Physical Therapist Salary by State
Physical Therapist Salaries in Ohio
Ohio’s commitment to education and patient care is great news for those seeking high-quality physical therapy services—and for Ohio PTs who are offering their skills and earning a healthy salary doing so.
If you want some good news about physical therapist salary and job growth, look no further than the state of Ohio. Ohio in general is growing, population-wise, and its healthcare sector is growing as well, providing crucial rehabilitation services to a diverse range of patients. Ohio has numerous healthcare facilities and hospitals that employ physical therapists, offering opportunities for practitioners to make significant impacts on patient recovery and mobility.
Additionally, Ohio has a strong focus on continuing education and professional development for physical therapists, ensuring that they stay updated with the latest techniques and best practices in their field.
In this Article
Quick view
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says there are 9,220 people employed as physical therapists in Ohio. This equates to nearly two people working in the profession per every 1,000 people living in the Buckeye State. The median wage per hour is $48 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 10.9%.
Physical therapists in Ohio can work across various healthcare sectors, but two unique areas in the state where they could practice are:
Sports medicine and rehabilitation therapy
Ohio is home to major sports teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns. This creates a unique environment for physical therapists specializing in sports medicine and rehabilitation. PTs in this sector work with athletes at all levels—from high school and collegiate to professional—providing injury prevention, rehabilitation and performance enhancement services.
Neurological rehabilitation
Ohio has a strong focus on neurological healthcare, with institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center leading in neurological care and research. Physical therapists in this sector work with patients who have neurological conditions like stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, offering specialized rehabilitation programs tailored to individual needs.
Here’s a list of five top employers for physical therapists in Ohio, including examples that specialize in sports medicine and neurology:
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.
- A leading healthcare institution in the U.S., the Cleveland Clinic offers diverse opportunities for PTs in various specialties, including neurological rehabilitation. The facility is renowned for its advanced research and innovative practices in healthcare.
- OhioHealth, Rehabilitation center in Columbus with multiple locations around Central Ohio.
- OhioHealth is a large healthcare system with multiple hospitals and outpatient facilities across central Ohio. It offers a wide range of physical therapy services, providing PTs with opportunities to work in different settings and specializations.
- Premier Health, Dayton, Troy and SW Ohio locations.
- Based in the Dayton region, Premier Health has a comprehensive network of hospitals, clinics and outpatient centers, employing PTs across various specialties. They provide extensive opportunities for PTs to work with diverse patient populations.
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH.
- As part of a large academic institution, this medical center provides a variety of services and specialties. It has a strong sports medicine program, offering PTs unique opportunities to work with athletes and contribute to sports-related rehabilitation and research.
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH.
- A leading pediatric healthcare facility, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center specializes in providing care for children and adolescents. It has a renowned neurological rehabilitation program, making it an excellent employer for PTs interested in working with pediatric neurological cases.
Salary statistics for Ohio
Median physical therapist salary in Ohio
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for physical therapists in Ohio is around $99,740, just slightly under the national median for PTs. Salaries generally depend upon your location, years of experience and whether you specialize in a particular or in-demand area. Entry-level physical therapists may earn less, while experienced practitioners in high-demand areas may earn significantly more.
If you compare Ohio’s median annual PT salary with the median national salary for physical therapists—which is is $101,020 a year—and you can see that Ohio is just dollars below the national figure. But take into consideration that Ohio has a lower cost of living in some areas, and you can see that your dollar may stretch for essentials such as healthcare, rent or utilities and transportation.
Physical Therapists
10%$75,070
25%$81,510
50%$99,740Median
75%$107,160
90%$123,330
Median Hourly Wage$48
Job growth10.9%
Total Employment9,240
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH | $102,240 | $74,980 | $130,160 |
| Cleveland, OH | $101,830 | $77,650 | $124,520 |
| Sandusky, OH | $101,710 | $71,810 | $122,290 |
| Columbus, OH | $101,390 | $76,280 | $120,990 |
| Springfield, OH | $101,090 | $72,220 | $117,250 |
| Toledo, OH | $100,480 | $74,530 | $112,840 |
| Akron, OH | $100,340 | $73,300 | $119,480 |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | $100,070 | $76,880 | $123,750 |
| Canton-Massillon, OH | $97,230 | $70,460 | $116,420 |
| Lima, OH | $96,590 | $74,240 | $114,940 |
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 ranges for PTs in Ohio
The salary range for PT professionals in Ohio typically spans from $75,070 for the lowest 10% in the field to $123,330 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. Salary ranges may be more or less too, in rural or metropolitan areas of the state.
Pay by metro area within the state of Ohio
Your earning level will fluctuate depending upon where in Ohio you choose to live. As you can see from the top employers above, a large number of jobs may be in the Akron or Cleveland areas, and in fact this is verified by the BLS, who ranks the north-northeastern area of Ohio, where these cities (and Pittsburgh) are, as the third largest nonmetropolitan areas with the highest employment of physical therapists in the U.S.
Here are the top 10 metro areas by pay, as ranked by the BLS.
While California takes nine of the 10 spots for pay, it only holds one spot for metro area and non-metro areas as far as employment of PTs, so the fact that Ohio holds steady for employment of PTs says a lot about opportunities available in the state.
Salary growth and job outlook
The key factors driving job and salary growth for PTs in Ohio include:
- Aging population: By 2050, Ohio, as a state, is expected to experience more deaths per year than births and incoming migration, says the Greater Ohio Policy Center, which bases their information on the U.S. Census’ data. But till then PTs will be needed for geriatric rehab services.
- Expanding healthcare industry: Ohio is experiencing growth in its healthcare infrastructure, with new hospitals, outpatient clinics and rehabilitation centers being established throughout the state. This expansion creates additional positions for PTs in various settings, from inpatient care to outpatient services.
- Preventive care and rehabilitation: There’s a growing emphasis on preventive care and rehabilitation in healthcare, with an increasing recognition of the role physical therapy plays in improving patients’ quality of life and reducing the need for more invasive treatments. This shift in healthcare philosophy promotes greater utilization of PT services, not just for injury rehabilitation but also for preventive care, wellness programs and chronic condition management. As a result, the demand for physical therapists is likely to continue growing in Ohio.
The BLS also anticipates faster than average growth for physical therapy nationwide, too:
10.9%
Job growth for physical therapists through 2034 according to the BLS
Factors that could affect PT salaries in Ohio
Salaries for physical therapists in Ohio may be influenced by factors such as experience, specialization, location and employer size. But Ohio has some factors unique to the state as well.
- Economic strength:
- Ohio’s economy is considered stable and diversified, contributing to steady job growth across various sectors. A strong economy can support investment in healthcare infrastructure, leading to more employment opportunities and competitive salaries for PTs.
- Healthcare infrastructure and demand:
- Ohio has a well-developed healthcare system with major hospitals, medical centers and academic institutions. This robust infrastructure provides a solid foundation for healthcare jobs, including physical therapy. With a focus on continuous improvement and innovation, Ohio’s healthcare system can support a strong demand for PTs.
Factors that affect salaries in Ohio, and everywhere else in the nation, include:
- In-state location:
- Salaries for PTs in Ohio can vary based on whether they work in urban, suburban or rural areas. Urban areas with higher living costs, such as Cleveland and Columbus, might offer higher salaries compared to rural regions.
- Experience and specialization:
- Physical therapists with more experience or specialized skills (like sports medicine or neurological rehabilitation) often command higher salaries. Continuing education and obtaining advanced certifications can boost a PT’s earning potential.
- Employer type:
- Different healthcare settings offer varying salary scales. Hospitals and large healthcare networks might offer higher salaries and benefits compared to smaller outpatient clinics or private practices. Academic medical centers might provide additional opportunities for research and teaching, which could impact salary.
- Economic conditions:
- The overall health of the economy can influence salaries. If the economy is robust, healthcare institutions may have more resources to offer competitive salaries. Conversely, economic downturns could lead to budget cuts, impacting salary growth.
- Supply and demand:
- If there’s a high demand for physical therapists in a specific region and a limited supply of qualified professionals, salaries are likely to be higher. Conversely, if the market is saturated with PTs, salary growth could be slower.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly in Ohio?
Ohio has several laws and statutes in place to protect workers and their pay. The Official Ohio Labor Law website states: “According to the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Wage and Hour Administration, Ohio’s labor laws are primarily established in Article II, Section 34a of the Ohio Constitution and Title 41 of the Ohio Revised Code, and particularly Chapter 4111: Minimum Fair Wage Standards and Chapter 4113: Miscellaneous Labor Provisions.” On their Prevailing Wage page, they offer the resource to file complaints if all other avenues to reconcile wage parity fails.
First, consider:
Researching industry salary standards
Start by researching salary benchmarks for physical therapists in Ohio. You can use websites like Payscale, Glassdoor, Indeed or the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to find average salary ranges based on factors like experience, location and specialization.
Use the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) website, which might offer salary surveys or industry reports that provide insight into typical compensation for physical therapists.
Looking at your employment contract
Read over your employment contract to understand what you signed up for. Look at the terms of your compensation, including salary, benefits and any clauses related to bonuses, raises or promotions. Make sure you didn’t miss anything when you accepted employment.
Having a discussion with your employer or HR department
If you have concerns about your pay, especially if you believe someone else is receiving more pay for the same job, request a meeting with your supervisor or HR representative to discuss your salary.
Talking to a labor or employment attorney
If all else fails, talk to a labor attorney or use the resources above to file a complaint with the state and schedule an investigation or hearing.
Education and training in Ohio
Ohio’s requirements for PTs to practice adhere with the national standards. Here is a guide outlining the necessary steps to pursue a career in physical therapy in Ohio:
Complete a bachelor’s degree
To start, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree. Although the major isn’t specified, many prospective physical therapists choose degrees in fields such as exercise science, health science or kinesiology, or even more scientific areas such as biology. These programs usually include foundational coursework in anatomy, physiology, biology and other sciences, preparing you for graduate studies.
Earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree
The standard educational requirement for becoming a physical therapist is obtaining a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). DPT programs typically take about three years to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical experience.
DPT coursework often covers subjects like biomechanics, anatomy, physiology, neuroscience, pharmacology and therapeutic exercises. Clinical internships are also a critical component, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
Take and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
After obtaining a DPT, candidates must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). This exam assesses the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective practice as a physical therapist.
Get licensed to practice in Ohio
Once you’ve passed the NPTE, you’ll need to meet Ohio’s licensure requirements, which include:
- Completing an application for licensure with the Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers (OTPTAT) Board.
- Passing a background check.
- Possibly fulfilling additional state-specific requirements, such as jurisprudence exams or proof of clinical hours.
Continuing education
Ohio requires licensed physical therapists to complete continuing education (CE) credits to maintain their licensure. The OTPTAT Board specifies the number of required CE credits and acceptable activities, which may include courses, workshops, conferences or online training.
Consider specializing
After gaining some experience, physical therapists can choose to specialize in areas like orthopedics, neurology, pediatrics, sports medicine, geriatrics or other fields. Specializations usually require additional certification from organizations like the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS), which involves further education, clinical experience and exams.
Cost of living in Ohio
The cost of living in Ohio is 8% lower than the national average, says RentCafe, and this is true across the board for most of the major cities in the state as well. Only one, Lima, is higher than the national average, and only 1% more cites RentCafe. Larger cities that are home to major healthcare and rehabilitation centers, such as Dayton, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Akron and Columbus are all below the national average, ranging from 3% lower (Cincinnati) to 10% lower (Akron). This makes Ohio a highly desirable state for PTs to pursue their calling.
Ohio professional associations for physical therapists and PTAs
In Ohio, professional associations play a significant role in supporting physical therapists and physical therapy assistants. These associations offer resources for continuing education, networking, advocacy and professional development. Below are the primary professional associations for PTs and PTAs in Ohio:
Ohio Physical Therapy Association (GPTA): The Ohio Physical Therapy Association (OPTA) is the state chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). It serves as the primary professional organization for PTs and PTAs in Ohio. OPTA advocates for policies and legislation that promote the interests of physical therapists and physical therapy assistants in Ohio. The association offers continuing education courses, conferences and workshops to help PTs stay current with industry trends and maintain licensure requirements.
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is the national professional organization for PTs and PTAs in the United States. While not specific to Ohio, APTA offers numerous benefits for Ohio-based practitioners. APTA has various special interest groups focusing on different aspects of physical therapy, such as orthopedics, neurology, geriatrics, pediatrics and more. APTA also hosts national conferences and events where PTs can learn from leading experts and network with peers across the country.
Depending on specialization and interests, PTs and PTAs in Ohio might also engage with other professional groups or associations, such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT) or the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). These organizations provide further opportunities for specialization and professional development.
This Ohio specific physical therapist salary guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession in the state. 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.