Physical Therapists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $123,300 | $101,020 | +22.1% vs US |
| State Rank | #1 of 52 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 24,380 jobs | 248,630 jobs | 9.8% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,910 | $39.38 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,100 | $47.64 |
| Median | $123,300 | $59.28 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,250 | $65.98 |
| 90th Percentile | $161,230 | $77.51 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Physical Therapists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $123,300 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +34.9%, physical therapists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can physical therapists increase their salary in California?
Physical Therapists in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #1 out of 52 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Physical Therapists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Scientific Research and Development Services | $135,620 |
| Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences | $135,620 |
| Outpatient Care Centers | $122,190 |
How are Physical Therapists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Physical Therapists in California is $123,300, which is 22.1% above the national median of $101,020.