Healthcare Louisiana (LA) Rank #32 of 50

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Louisiana

The median respiratory therapist salary in Louisiana is $64,191 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $70,540.

Median Salary
$64,191
vs National
$-6,349
State Rank
#32 of 50
Cost of Living
91%

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Louisiana by Experience

In Louisiana, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $45,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,450 per year. The cost of living index in Louisiana is 91% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$45,500
$-4,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$65,520
$-6,480 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$86,450
$-8,550 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Louisiana

Percentile LA Salary
10th Percentile $43,680
25th Percentile $51,870
Median (50th) $64,191
75th Percentile $78,260
90th Percentile $90,090

Respiratory Therapist Salary by City in Louisiana

The largest employment areas for respiratory therapists in Louisiana include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Lafayette. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

New Orleans, LA
$69,129
Pop. 383,997 · COL 98%
Baton Rouge, LA
$64,897
Pop. 227,470 · COL 92%
Shreveport, LA
$59,959
Pop. 187,593 · COL 85%
Lafayette, LA
$62,075
Pop. 121,374 · COL 88%
Lake Charles, LA
$60,664
Pop. 80,000 · COL 86%

How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Louisiana

Education

Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Louisiana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Ventilator ManagementPulmonary Function TestingABG AnalysisOxygen TherapyCritical CarePatient Assessment

Job Outlook in Louisiana

Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Louisiana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.