By: Natural Healers Staff
Updated: January 26, 2026
Physical Therapy Degree and Career Guide
Physical Therapist Salary by State
Physical Therapist Salaries in Texas
Physical therapy roles rank highly in Texas, and the state has much to offer—including rewarding salaries.
Texas is rated as the number one state for physical therapists by University of St. Augustine Health Sciences, primarily because of its projected employment growth and average salary. By 2032, physical therapist employment in Texas is expected to grow by 10.9%, with a median salary of $103,710 said the BLS. This growth makes Texas an attractive destination for physical therapists looking for a robust job market with competitive pay.
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There are 17,170 people employed as physical therapists in Texas says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This makes Texas the second highest employer of PTs in the country, after California. The median wage per hour is $50 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 10.9%.
Texas is considered a strong state for physical therapists due to several factors:
- High demand: Texas has a large and diverse population, leading to a robust demand for physical therapy services across various settings such as hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools and sports facilities. This high demand creates numerous job opportunities for physical therapists.
- Competitive salaries: Physical therapists in Texas generally earn competitive salaries compared to other states. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physical therapists in Texas is typically above the national average, which makes it an attractive location for professionals in this field.
- Strong educational institution presence: Texas is home to several reputable universities and colleges offering physical therapy programs. These programs provide high-quality education and training, leading to a steady flow of skilled physical therapists into the workforce.
- Diverse practice areas: Texas offers physical therapists the opportunity to work in various specialties and settings. Whether it’s orthopedics, pediatrics, geriatrics, sports medicine or neurology, Texas has a broad range of practice areas for physical therapists to explore.
- Professional development opportunities: Texas has an active community of physical therapy professionals and associations, such as the Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA), which offers networking, continuing education and professional development opportunities.
These factors combined make Texas a strong candidate for physical therapists seeking career growth, competitive pay and diverse practice environments. Here are just five major employers of PTs in the state:
- Texas Health Resources, Dallas-Fort Worth, TX.
- One of the largest healthcare systems in Texas (24 locations), offering numerous job opportunities for physical therapists across hospitals, clinics and other care settings.
- Baylor Scott & White Health, Multiple locations, TX.
- A large not-for-profit healthcare system in Texas, known for its extensive network of hospitals and clinics where physical therapists are employed.
- HCA Healthcare, Houston and multiple locations, TX.
- With multiple hospitals in Texas, HCA Healthcare offers employment opportunities for physical therapists across a variety of specialties and locations.
- Memorial Hermann Health System, Houston-The Woodlands metro area, TX.
- This health system has a strong presence in Houston and surrounding areas, with physical therapists working in various departments, including rehabilitation and outpatient services.
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX.
- A leading academic medical center in Dallas, UT Southwestern employs physical therapists in clinical roles, research and education.
Salary statistics for Texas
Texas has a large and growing population, leading to high demand for healthcare services, including physical therapy. The state’s robust healthcare infrastructure offers many job opportunities for physical therapists in various settings such as hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centers. This type of demand and growth may contribute to salary as well. Here are some statistics as reported by the BLS and other agencies.
Median physical therapist salary in Texas
Texas offers competitive salaries for physical therapists, driven by employment growth and demand for healthcare services. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for physical therapists in Texas is around $103,710, making it the fifth highest paying state in the U.S., with variations depending on location, experience and specialization.
Compare Texas’ median annual PT salary with the median national salary for physical therapists—which is is $101,020 a year—and you can see Texas pays around $5,000 a year more.
Physical Therapists
10%$74,380
25%$85,560
50%$103,710Median
75%$124,160
90%$135,390
Median Hourly Wage$50
Job growth10.9%
Total Employment18,930
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midland, TX | $116,150 | $76,370 | $152,840 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | $112,210 | $76,140 | $148,100 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX | $111,070 | $80,110 | $138,200 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $108,190 | $77,210 | $136,030 |
| Waco, TX | $107,500 | $78,270 | $132,460 |
| Sherman-Denison, TX | $106,960 | $86,540 | $135,960 |
| Odessa, TX | $106,900 | $80,330 | $132,790 |
| Tyler, TX | $106,800 | $80,440 | $130,470 |
| Amarillo, TX | $104,560 | $74,510 | $134,170 |
| Texarkana, TX-AR | $103,780 | $75,190 | $133,500 |
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 physical therapists in Texas
The salary range for PT professionals in California typically spans from $74,380 for the lowest 10% in the field to $135,390 for the highest 10% in the field per year.
The major metro area encompassing Houston has a range of $78,570 to $149,730, and Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area offers $77,630 to $136,920 says the BLS. Austin checks in at $70,000 to $134,520. These ranges account 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 Texas
Several cities in Texas have a median salary above the national median for PTs. For example, Houston pays $110,530, while Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington pays $107,030 on average. Though Texas has no metro areas in the BLS’ top 10 areas for highest pay, it does rank eighth and ninth for highest employment of PTs in the country. These honors go to the Dallas-Fort Worth- Arlington, and the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land regions of the state, respectively.
Here are the top 10 highest employment metro areas for PTs in the U.S. as cited by the BLS:
Salary growth and job outlook
Job growth for physical therapists in Texas is expected to be strong (28% says, USA.edu) driven by various factors that contribute to a sustained demand for physical therapy services.
The BLS also anticipates faster than average growth for physical therapy nationwide, and in Texas. Take a look:
10.9%
Job growth for physical therapists through 2034 according to the BLS
Factors that may affect physical therapist salaries in Texas
Texas is a desirable state for PTs for a few reasons. Factors other than education and experience, where you work and area of specialty that contribute to Texas’ salaries for physical therapists include:
- High employment growth: Texas has a high projected employment growth rate for physical therapists, signaling strong demand and job opportunities.
- Competitive salaries: The average salary for physical therapists in Texas is higher than the national average.
- Affordable cost of living: Texas offers a cost of living index score of 93, which is lower than many other states with comparable salary levels, says Berxi.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly in Texas?
Determining whether you’re paid fairly as a physical therapist in Texas involves a doing your research, understanding your industry in your location and comparing your compensation package with benchmarks. Here’s a guide to help you assess your pay fairness:
- Look for trusted industry reports that provide legitimate salary data for physical therapists in your area. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is a good source, offering national and state-level data on median and average salaries for PTs.
- Determine if your location in Texas impacts your salary. If you are in a major urban hub such as Houston, Dallas or Austin, you may earn more due to higher living costs and demand.
- Consider your job benefits. Fair pay is more than just salary—it includes factors like benefits, workload, time off and environment. How do these contribute to your overall compensation package. If you are self-employed, you have the ability to raise your rates to meet the current market value.
- Assess your experience and area of specialty. More experience and education generally translates to higher pay. Are you specializing in an in-demand area, such as pediatrics or geriatrics? This may impact salary.
If you are still dissatisfied with the information you discover about your position and pay, you do have resources. The Texas Workforce Commission website allows you to file a complaint online of by phone if you feel you are paid unfairly.
Education and training
The steps to become a physical therapist in Texas include obtaining a bachelor’s degree, completing prerequisite courses, earning a DPT degree, gaining clinical experience, passing the NPTE, obtaining a Texas PT license and maintaining that license through continuing education. By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to a career as a physical therapist in Texas:
First, earn a bachelor’s degree
To become a physical therapist, you must first complete a bachelor’s degree. While there’s no specific requirement for your major, it’s beneficial to choose a field related to health or sciences, such as biology, kinesiology or exercise science. This background will provide you with a solid foundation for your future studies.
Complete prerequisites for PT school
Most Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs require specific prerequisite courses. These usually include anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, statistics and psychology. Be sure to check the specific requirements of the DPT programs you’re interested in to ensure you meet all prerequisites.
Earn a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT)
Once you have your bachelor’s degree and meet the prerequisites, you must earn a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT). This typically takes about three years and involves both classroom instruction and clinical experience. Texas has several well-regarded DPT programs, including those at the University of Texas, Texas Woman’s University and Baylor University.
Gain clinical experience and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
During your DPT program, you’ll complete clinical rotations in various settings to gain hands-on experience. This is a crucial step, allowing you to apply your knowledge and develop your skills in real-world situations.
After earning your DPT degree, you must the pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become licensed. This is a comprehensive exam that tests your knowledge and skills in physical therapy.
Apply for a Texas PT license
Once you pass the NPTE, you’ll need to apply for a physical therapy license in Texas through the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners (TBPTE). This process includes submitting an application, passing a jurisprudence exam on Texas laws and regulations related to physical therapy, and meeting other requirements like a background check.
Maintain and renew your license
After obtaining your license, you’ll need to maintain it by completing continuing education (CE) credits. In Texas, PTs must complete a certain number of CE hours every two years to renew their license.
Cost of living considerations
The cost of living in Texas varies significantly depending on the city or region, but overall, Texas is known for its affordable living compared to many other U.S. states. Here’s an overview of the key factors that contribute to the cost of living in Texas:
Housing Costs
Texas generally offers lower housing costs than the national average. The state’s vast land area contributes to more affordable real estate, especially in suburban and rural areas. Cities like Austin and Dallas have seen a surge in housing costs due to high demand, but they are still generally more affordable compared to major cities in other states like California and New York.
Transportation
Texas is known for its car-centric culture, with many cities lacking extensive public transportation. This can lead to higher transportation costs due to fuel and vehicle maintenance. Gasoline tends to be cheaper in Texas than in many other states due to lower taxes and proximity to refineries.
Healthcare costs
Texas has a wide range of healthcare facilities, from large hospitals in cities to smaller clinics in rural areas. Healthcare costs can vary depending on your location and insurance coverage.
Food, groceries and utilities
Texas generally has average to below-average food costs. The state’s agricultural industry contributes to lower prices for certain products. Dining out is reasonably priced compared to other states, though upscale areas and popular dining districts can be more expensive.
Texas has relatively low utility costs, including electricity and water. The state’s abundant energy resources help keep energy costs down, however the warm climate can lead to higher air conditioning costs in summer, but mild winters generally result in lower heating costs.
State taxes
Texas does not have a state income tax, which can significantly lower the tax burden for residents, however property taxes in Texas are generally higher than the national average, which can impact homeowners. However, the lack of state income tax can offset this for many people.
Texas professional groups for PTs
Here are some professional associations that physical therapists in Texas can join. Groups that are state-based or regional can offer support, resources, networking and continuing education opportunities for physical therapists.
Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA): TPTA is the state chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). It represents physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students in Texas. The association focuses on advancing the physical therapy profession, advocating for favorable legislation, and providing continuing education opportunities.
Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners: TBPTE is the state regulatory board responsible for licensing physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in Texas. While not a professional association per se, it plays a critical role in the profession by establishing and enforcing regulations.
Texas Consortium for Physical Therapy Clinical Education: TCPTCE is a coalition of physical therapy educational programs in Texas. Its goal is to foster collaboration among physical therapy programs, promote best practices in education, and support the development of future physical therapists.
Texas Occupational Therapy Association (TOTA): While primarily focused on occupational therapy, TOTA includes a significant number of physical therapists and physical therapy assistants who collaborate with occupational therapists in various settings. It can be a valuable resource for physical therapists interested in interdisciplinary work.
This physical therapist salary guide for Texas 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.