Respiratory Therapist Salary in Wisconsin
The median respiratory therapist salary in Wisconsin is $66,308 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $70,540.
Respiratory Therapist Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)
Wisconsin ranks #26 out of 50 states for respiratory therapist compensation. Respiratory Therapist salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $66,308 per year, respiratory therapists in Wisconsin earn $4,232 less than the national median of $70,540.
A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $66,308 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $72,074 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: respiratory therapists at the 10th percentile earn $45,120, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $93,060 — a $47,940 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, where the median reaches $71,951.
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 Wisconsin and beyond.
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Wisconsin by Experience
In Wisconsin, an entry-level respiratory therapist earns around $47,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,300 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.
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| Percentile | WI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,120 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,580 |
| Median (50th) | $66,308 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $93,060 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by City in Wisconsin
The largest employment areas for respiratory therapists in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Wisconsin
Education
Most respiratory therapist positions require a associate's degree. Wisconsin has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Wisconsin
Nationally, respiratory therapist employment is projected to grow 14% over the next decade (much faster than average). Wisconsin's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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