Comparing New Grad PT Salaries to Other Healthcare Professions
For many new grad physical therapists (PTs), stepping into the professional world brings excitement, ambition, and one burning question—how does my salary stack up against other healthcare professions? If you’ve been wondering whether you’re getting the most out of your career, you're not alone.
From travel PT options to traditional settings, the earning potential of PTs may surprise you—especially when compared to other healthcare professionals like occupational therapists (OTs), speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and nurses. This blog explores where new grad PT salaries align within the healthcare landscape and how travel PT assignments can significantly boost your income.
New Grad PT Salary Overview
The average salary for a new grad PT typically ranges between $70,000 and $85,000 annually in a standard setting, depending on location, facility, and demand. While this baseline is competitive, entering the field as a travel PT can unlock earning potential much higher—often exceeding $100,000 annually, thanks to non-taxable stipends and housing allowances offered by travel assignments.
Travel PT Salaries
Travel PT positions are known for their lucrative pay packages, making them an ideal path for those ready to relocate. Here's how it breaks down:
- Weekly Pay: Travel PTs can earn between $1,500 and $2,000+ per week, depending on the assignment.
- Bonuses: Many contracts include completion bonuses or referral incentives that can significantly add to annual earnings.
- Non-Taxable Benefits: Housing stipends and meal allowances help reduce living expenses, leaving more money in your pocket.
For context, a typical full-time PT in a clinic setting earning $75,000 annually would take home significantly less after expenses compared to a travel PT earning $100,000+ with stipends.
How PT Salaries Compare to Other Healthcare Professions
Occupational Therapists (OTs)
Similar to PTs, new grad OTs often start with salaries in the $70,000-$85,000 range for traditional roles. However, flexibility comes into play for those who go the travel route, where OTs can make up to $1,800 per week depending on demand. While these rates rival travel PT earnings, availability of OT assignments tends to be more limited in certain areas.
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
SLP salaries depend greatly on the location and setting. For new grads, base salaries average $60,000-$80,000 annually. Those pursuing travel SLP roles, however, can earn around $1,600-$1,900 per week, putting their earning potential just below that of travel PTs.
Registered Nurses (RNs)
Registered nurses are often seen as a benchmark in healthcare salaries. New grad nurses typically start with an annual base salary of $65,000-$75,000 in most states. However, travel nursing offers some of the highest earning potentials, with weekly pay rates averaging $1,800 to $3,000+, depending on specialty and location. While travel PT salaries remain competitive against travel nurses in standard assignments, high-demand nursing specialties may out-earn most PT roles.
Other Allied Health Professionals
Other allied health professionals, including radiologic technologists and respiratory therapists, generally start with annual salaries around $55,000-$70,000 in traditional settings. Travel assignments for these roles can reach $1,400-$1,800 per week, making travel PT positions some of the most lucrative compared to other allied professions.
Why Travel PT Might Be Your Best Move
When comparing new grad PT salaries to others in the healthcare field, one thing becomes clear—positioning yourself as a travel PT can put you at the upper end of the earnings spectrum. Here’s why:
- Higher Weekly Pay: Outpacing most other allied professions.
- Greater Demand: Physical therapy continues to be a growing field with steady travel assignment opportunities.
- Non-Taxable Benefits: Unique to travel assignments, these benefits make travel PTs financially more comfortable.
Make the Most of Your PT Career
Whether you're just starting out or exploring your options, understanding how PT salaries compare across healthcare professions can help you make an informed decision. Travel PT, in particular, offers not just financial rewards but also the freedom to explore new places—a win-win for adventurous grads looking to make their mark.
Think travel PT might be your next step? Reach out today to learn how you can start your travel healthcare career. With AMN Healthcare, you’re set up with tailored assignments, competitive pay packages, and 24/7 support to help you achieve your career goals.
