Physical Therapist Salary in Chicago, IL
How much does a physical therapist make in Chicago? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Chicago's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how physical therapist salaries break down across different pay periods in Chicago.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $70,222 | $104,200 | $141,576 |
| Monthly | $5,852 | $8,683 | $11,798 |
| Biweekly | $2,701 | $4,008 | $5,445 |
| Weekly | $1,350 | $2,004 | $2,723 |
| Hourly | $34 | $50 | $68 |
Chicago vs National Average
How Chicago's physical therapist salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Chicago
About Physical Therapist
Overview
Help patients recover from injuries and improve mobility through rehabilitation.
Education
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT); licensure required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +18% over the next decade
Compare Cities: Physical Therapist Salary
See Physical Therapist salaries in other top cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
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Physical Therapist Salary in Chicago, IL — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a physical therapist in Chicago, IL is $104,200 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 112. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Chicago's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level physical therapist professionals in Chicago can expect to earn around $70,222 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level physical therapists earning approximately $141,576 per year. This represents a 102% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Chicago's cost of living index of 112 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Chicago are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $101,850, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a physical therapist's salary in Chicago typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,700 per month, housing represents about 19.6% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Physical Therapists are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 18% over the next decade. In Chicago, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.