Healthcare Lafayette, LA Pop. 121,374

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Lafayette, Louisiana

The median respiratory therapist salary in Lafayette, LA is $62,075 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 3.3% below the Louisiana state average.

City Median
$62,075
vs State Avg
$-2,116
vs National
$-8,465
Cost of Living
88%

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Lafayette by Experience

In Lafayette, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $44,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$44,000
$-6,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$63,360
$-8,640 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$83,600
$-11,400 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Lafayette, LA

Percentile Lafayette
10th Percentile $42,240
25th Percentile $50,160
Median (50th) $62,075
75th Percentile $75,680
90th Percentile $87,120

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Other Louisiana Cities

New Orleans, LA
$69,129
Pop. 383,997
Baton Rouge, LA
$64,897
Pop. 227,470
Lake Charles, LA
$60,664
Pop. 80,000
Shreveport, LA
$59,959
Pop. 187,593

How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Lafayette

Education

Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Lafayette and the surrounding Louisiana 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 Lafayette may vary based on local industry and population growth.