Physical therapists are in high demand, and the median salary is $95,620, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, it is possible to make much more than the median salary. In fact, the top 10% of physical therapists earn more than $135,850 per year.

If you are interested in making $200k as a physical therapist, there are a few things you can do.
1. Get specialized training.
One of the best ways to increase your earning potential is to get specialized training. This can include getting a master’s degree or doctorate in physical therapy, or completing a fellowship program. Specialization can allow you to work with a specific population of patients, such as athletes, children, or the elderly. It can also allow you to develop expertise in a particular area of physical therapy, such as orthopedics, neurology, or sports medicine.
2. Work in a high-paying setting.
The setting in which you work can also have a big impact on your salary. Physical therapists who work in hospitals or clinics tend to earn more than those who work in private practice. This is because hospitals and clinics typically have higher patient volumes and can afford to pay their physical therapists more.
3. Start your own business.
If you are ambitious and entrepreneurial, you may want to consider starting your own physical therapy business. This can be a great way to earn a high salary and have more control over your work life. However, it is important to do your research before starting your own business. You need to make sure that there is a demand for your services in your area and that you have the skills and experience necessary to run a successful business.
4. Negotiate your salary.
When you are negotiating your salary, it is important to be prepared. You should know what the average salary is for physical therapists in your area and what your skills and experience are worth. You should also be prepared to walk away from the negotiation if you are not offered a fair salary.
5. Seek out opportunities for advancement.
If you are looking to make $200k as a physical therapist, it is important to seek out opportunities for advancement. This may include taking on leadership roles within your organization or getting involved in research or teaching. You should also be willing to relocate to a different area if there are more opportunities for advancement.
Why it Matters
There are many benefits to making $200k as a physical therapist. For one, you will be able to live a comfortable lifestyle and provide for your family. You will also be able to save for retirement and invest in your future. Additionally, making a high salary can give you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common mistakes that physical therapists make when trying to earn a high salary. These mistakes include:
- Not getting specialized training
- Working in a low-paying setting
- Not starting your own business
- Not negotiating your salary
- Not seeking out opportunities for advancement
If you want to make $200k as a physical therapist, it is important to avoid these mistakes. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your earning potential and achieve your financial goals.
Table 1: Average Salaries for Physical Therapists by Setting
Setting | Average Salary |
---|---|
Hospitals | $98,880 |
Clinics | $96,010 |
Private practice | $89,430 |
Table 2: Top 10% of Physical Therapists’ Salaries by Specialization
Specialization | Top 10% Salary |
---|---|
Orthopedics | $140,230 |
Neurology | $138,900 |
Sports medicine | $137,560 |
Pediatrics | $136,220 |
Geriatrics | $135,850 |
Table 3: Common Mistakes Physical Therapists Make When Trying to Earn a High Salary
Mistake | Description |
---|---|
Not getting specialized training | Physical therapists with specialized training earn more than those without. |
Working in a low-paying setting | Physical therapists who work in hospitals or clinics tend to earn more than those who work in private practice. |
Not starting your own business | Starting your own physical therapy business can be a great way to earn a high salary. |
Not negotiating your salary | When negotiating your salary, it is important to be prepared and know what you are worth. |
Not seeking out opportunities for advancement | If you want to make $200k as a physical therapist, it is important to seek out opportunities for advancement. |
Table 4: Tips for Increasing Your Earning Potential as a Physical Therapist
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Get specialized training | Physical therapists with specialized training earn more than those without. |
Work in a high-paying setting | Physical therapists who work in hospitals or clinics tend to earn more than those who work in private practice. |
Start your own business | Starting your own physical therapy business can be a great way to earn a high salary. |
Negotiate your salary | When negotiating your salary, it is important to be prepared and know what you are worth. |
Seek out opportunities for advancement | If you want to make $200k as a physical therapist, it is important to seek out opportunities for advancement. |