Physical Therapist Salary in Alabama
The median physical therapist salary in Alabama is $85,016 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $97,720.
Physical Therapist Salary Overview in Alabama (2026)
Alabama ranks #44 out of 50 states for physical therapist compensation. Physical Therapist salaries in Alabama are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $85,016 per year, physical therapists in Alabama earn $12,704 less than the national median of $97,720.
A key advantage of working in Alabama is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $85,016 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $97,720 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Alabama is significant: physical therapists at the 10th percentile earn $58,116, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $113,274 — a $55,158 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alabama for this role is Huntsville, where the median reaches $89,902.
Nationally, physical therapist employment is projected to grow 15% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Alabama and beyond.
Physical Therapist Salary in Alabama by Experience
In Alabama, an entry-level physical therapist earns around $59,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $111,360 per year. The cost of living index in Alabama is 87% of the national average.
Build Wealth on Your Income
With a $85,016 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.
See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Alabama
| Percentile | AL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $58,116 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,774 |
| Median (50th) | $85,016 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,268 |
| 90th Percentile | $113,274 |
Physical Therapist Salary by City in Alabama
The largest employment areas for physical therapists in Alabama include Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, and Mobile. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physical Therapist in Alabama
Education
Most physical therapist positions require a doctoral degree. Alabama has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Alabama
Nationally, physical therapist employment is projected to grow 15% over the next decade (much faster than average). Alabama's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 258,400 other Physical Therapists.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Physical Therapist Roles in Alabama?
Get matched with recruiters hiring physical therapists in Alabama at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: