Healthcare Fort Smith, AR Pop. 89,142

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Fort Smith, Arkansas

The median respiratory therapist salary in Fort Smith, AR is $55,021 per year, which is 22% below the national median and 4.9% below the Arkansas state average.

City Median
$55,021
vs State Avg
$-2,822
vs National
$-15,519
Cost of Living
80%

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Fort Smith by Experience

In Fort Smith, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $39,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,100 per year. The local cost of living index is 80% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$39,000
$-11,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$56,160
$-15,840 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$74,100
$-20,900 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Fort Smith, AR

Percentile Fort Smith
10th Percentile $37,440
25th Percentile $44,460
Median (50th) $55,021
75th Percentile $67,080
90th Percentile $77,220

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Other Arkansas Cities

How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Fort Smith

Education

Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Fort Smith and the surrounding Arkansas area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Ventilator ManagementPulmonary Function TestingABG AnalysisOxygen TherapyCritical CarePatient Assessment

Job Outlook

Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Fort Smith may vary based on local industry and population growth.