Respiratory Therapist Salary in Hawaii
The median respiratory therapist salary in Hawaii is $125,561 per year, which is 78.0% above the national median of $70,540.
Respiratory Therapist Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for respiratory therapist compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for respiratory therapists seeking high pay. At $125,561 per year, respiratory therapists in Hawaii earn $55,021 more than the national median of $70,540.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $125,561 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $73,859.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: respiratory therapists at the 10th percentile earn $85,440, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $176,220 — a $90,780 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $129,088.
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 Hawaii and beyond.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $89,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $169,100 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $85,440 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,460 |
| Median (50th) | $125,561 |
| 75th Percentile | $153,080 |
| 90th Percentile | $176,220 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for respiratory therapists in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Hawaii
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Respiratory Therapists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $43,539 over your career trajectory.
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