Respiratory Therapist Salary in New Jersey
The median respiratory therapist salary in New Jersey is $84,648 per year, which is 20.0% above the national median of $70,540.
Respiratory Therapist Salary Overview in New Jersey (2026)
New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for respiratory therapist compensation. This places New Jersey in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for respiratory therapists seeking high pay. At $84,648 per year, respiratory therapists in New Jersey earn $14,108 more than the national median of $70,540.
It's worth noting that New Jersey's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $84,648 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $73,607.
The salary spread in New Jersey is significant: respiratory therapists at the 10th percentile earn $57,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $118,800 — a $61,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Jersey for this role is Jersey City, where the median reaches $93,818.
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 New Jersey and beyond.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in New Jersey by Experience
In New Jersey, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $60,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $114,000 per year. The cost of living index in New Jersey is 115% of the national average.
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| Percentile | NJ Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $57,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $68,400 |
| Median (50th) | $84,648 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $118,800 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by City in New Jersey
The largest employment areas for respiratory therapists in New Jersey include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Elizabeth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in New Jersey
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. New Jersey has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in New Jersey
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). New Jersey's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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