Respiratory Therapist Salary in Arkansas
The median respiratory therapist salary in Arkansas is $57,843 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $70,540.
Respiratory Therapist Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for respiratory therapist compensation. Respiratory Therapist salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $57,843 per year, respiratory therapists in Arkansas earn $12,697 less than the national median of $70,540.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $57,843 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $68,861 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: respiratory therapists at the 10th percentile earn $39,360, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $81,180 — a $41,820 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $60,664.
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 Arkansas and beyond.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $41,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $77,900 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $39,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,740 |
| Median (50th) | $57,843 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,520 |
| 90th Percentile | $81,180 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for respiratory therapists in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Arkansas
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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