Physical Therapist Salary in Rhode Island
The median physical therapist salary in Rhode Island is $105,538 per year, which is 8.0% above the national median of $97,720.
Physical Therapist Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #12 out of 50 states for physical therapist compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for physical therapist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $105,538 per year, physical therapists in Rhode Island earn $7,818 more than the national median of $97,720.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning physical therapist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: physical therapists at the 10th percentile earn $72,144, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $140,616 — a $68,472 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $108,469.
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 Rhode Island and beyond.
Physical Therapist Salary in Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level physical therapist earns around $73,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $138,240 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,144 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,616 |
| Median (50th) | $105,538 |
| 75th Percentile | $125,712 |
| 90th Percentile | $140,616 |
Physical Therapist Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for physical therapists in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physical Therapist in Rhode Island
Education
Most physical therapist positions require a doctoral degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, physical therapist employment is projected to grow 15% over the next decade (much faster than average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physical Therapists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $32,702 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Physical Therapist Roles in Rhode Island?
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