Respiratory Therapist Salary in Alabama
The median respiratory therapist salary in Alabama is $61,370 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $70,540.
Respiratory Therapist Salary Overview in Alabama (2026)
Alabama ranks #44 out of 50 states for respiratory therapist compensation. Respiratory Therapist salaries in Alabama are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $61,370 per year, respiratory therapists in Alabama earn $9,170 less than the national median of $70,540.
A key advantage of working in Alabama is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $61,370 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $70,540 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Alabama is significant: respiratory therapists at the 10th percentile earn $41,760, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $86,130 — a $44,370 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 $64,897.
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Alabama and beyond.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Alabama by Experience
In Alabama, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $43,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,650 per year. The cost of living index in Alabama is 87% of the national average.
Build Wealth on Your Income
With a $61,370 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 | $41,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,590 |
| Median (50th) | $61,370 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,820 |
| 90th Percentile | $86,130 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by City in Alabama
The largest employment areas for respiratory 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 Respiratory Therapist in Alabama
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Alabama has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Alabama
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% 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 136,200 other Respiratory Therapists.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Respiratory Therapist Roles in Alabama?
Get matched with recruiters hiring respiratory therapists in Alabama at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: