Respiratory Therapist Salary in Rhode Island
The median respiratory therapist salary in Rhode Island is $76,183 per year, which is 8.0% above the national median of $70,540.
Respiratory Therapist Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #12 out of 50 states for respiratory therapist compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for respiratory therapist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $76,183 per year, respiratory therapists in Rhode Island earn $5,643 more than the national median of $70,540.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning respiratory therapist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: respiratory therapists at the 10th percentile earn $51,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $106,920 — a $55,080 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $78,299.
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 Rhode Island and beyond.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $54,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $102,600 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
Build Wealth on Your Income
With a $76,183 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.
See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,560 |
| Median (50th) | $76,183 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $106,920 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for respiratory therapists in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Rhode Island
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 136,200 other Respiratory Therapists.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Respiratory Therapist Roles in Rhode Island?
Get matched with recruiters hiring respiratory therapists in Rhode Island at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: