Healthcare San Diego, CA Pop. 1,386,932

Physical Therapist Salary in San Diego, California

The median physical therapist salary in San Diego, CA is $146,580 per year, which is 50.0% above the national median and 2.7% above the California state average.

City Median
$146,580
vs State Avg
+$3,909
vs National
+$48,860
Cost of Living
142%

Physical Therapist Salary in San Diego by Experience

In San Diego, an entry-level physical therapist earns around $102,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $192,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 142% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$102,000
+$34,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$147,000
+$49,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$192,000
+$64,000 vs national

Salary Percentiles in San Diego, CA

Percentile San Diego
10th Percentile $100,200
25th Percentile $120,300
Median (50th) $146,580
75th Percentile $174,600
90th Percentile $195,300

Physical Therapist Salary in Other California Cities

How to Become a Physical Therapist in San Diego

Education

Most physical therapist positions require a doctoral degree. San Diego and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Manual TherapyExercise PrescriptionPatient AssessmentRehabilitationAnatomyDocumentation

Job Outlook

Nationally, physical therapist employment is projected to grow 15% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in San Diego may vary based on local industry and population growth.