Respiratory Therapist Salary in Columbia, MO
How much does a respiratory therapist make in Columbia? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Columbia's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how respiratory therapist salaries break down across different pay periods in Columbia.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $40,386 | $61,027 | $83,464 |
| Monthly | $3,366 | $5,086 | $6,955 |
| Biweekly | $1,553 | $2,347 | $3,210 |
| Weekly | $777 | $1,174 | $1,605 |
| Hourly | $19 | $29 | $40 |
Columbia vs National Average
How Columbia's respiratory therapist salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Columbia
About Respiratory Therapist
Overview
Treat patients with respiratory conditions and operate breathing equipment.
Education
Associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy; licensure required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +15% over the next decade
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Financial Tools to Explore
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Respiratory Therapist Salary in Columbia, MO — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a respiratory therapist in Columbia, MO is $61,027 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 92. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Columbia's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level respiratory therapist professionals in Columbia can expect to earn around $40,386 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level respiratory therapists earning approximately $83,464 per year. This represents a 107% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Columbia's cost of living index of 92 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Columbia are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $78,040, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a respiratory therapist's salary in Columbia typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $950 per month, housing represents about 18.7% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Respiratory Therapists are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 15% over the next decade. In Columbia, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.