Respiratory Therapist Salary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The median respiratory therapist salary in Philadelphia, PA is $74,067 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 6.1% above the Pennsylvania state average.
Respiratory Therapist Pay in Philadelphia: What to Expect (2026)
Philadelphia offers a median respiratory therapist salary of $74,067, which is $4,232 above the Pennsylvania state average of $69,835. Compared to the national median of $70,540, Philadelphia pays above average for this role.
Philadelphia's cost of living is 102% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for respiratory therapists in Philadelphia spans from $50,400 at the 10th percentile to $103,950 at the 90th percentile — a $53,550 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $52,500, while senior respiratory therapists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $99,750. As a major metro area with a population of 1,603,797, Philadelphia typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Philadelphia by Experience
In Philadelphia, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $52,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $99,750 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Philadelphia, PA
| Percentile | Philadelphia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,850 |
| Median (50th) | $74,067 |
| 75th Percentile | $90,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $103,950 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Other Pennsylvania Cities
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Philadelphia
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Philadelphia and the surrounding Pennsylvania area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Philadelphia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Respiratory Therapist Jobs in Philadelphia
Browse open respiratory therapist positions in Philadelphia, PA: