Physical Therapist Salary in Washington
The median physical therapist salary in Washington is $116,287 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $97,720.
Physical Therapist Salary Overview in Washington (2026)
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for physical therapist compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for physical therapists seeking high pay. At $116,287 per year, physical therapists in Washington earn $18,567 more than the national median of $97,720.
It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $116,287 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $101,119.
The salary spread in Washington is significant: physical therapists at the 10th percentile earn $79,492, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $154,938 — a $75,446 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Washington for this role is Bellevue, where the median reaches $152,443.
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 Washington and beyond.
Physical Therapist Salary in Washington by Experience
In Washington, an entry-level physical therapist earns around $80,920, while experienced professionals earn up to $152,320 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Washington
| Percentile | WA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,492 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,438 |
| Median (50th) | $116,287 |
| 75th Percentile | $138,516 |
| 90th Percentile | $154,938 |
Physical Therapist Salary by City in Washington
The largest employment areas for physical therapists in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physical Therapist in Washington
Education
Most physical therapist positions require a doctoral degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Washington
Nationally, physical therapist employment is projected to grow 15% over the next decade (much faster than average). Washington'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 $36,033 over your career trajectory.
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