How much does a physical therapist make in Tennessee? This question takes center stage as we delve into the intricacies of the physical therapy profession within the Volunteer State. With a comprehensive analysis of salary ranges, benefits packages, and career advancement opportunities, this guide provides a clear roadmap for aspiring and experienced physical therapists alike.

Tennessee’s physical therapist job market is thriving, with a projected growth rate that outpaces the national average. The state’s diverse healthcare landscape offers ample employment opportunities in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

Job Market Overview

The physical therapist job market in Tennessee is robust and growing. The state has a high demand for qualified physical therapists, with employment rates consistently exceeding the national average. This demand is driven by several factors, including the state’s aging population, increasing awareness of the benefits of physical therapy, and a growing emphasis on preventive care.

The projected growth rate for physical therapists in Tennessee is 22% over the next ten years, significantly higher than the national average of 18%. This growth is expected to create over 1,000 new jobs in the state by 2031. The job market for physical therapists in Tennessee is competitive, but qualified candidates with strong skills and experience are in high demand.

Job Availability

Job availability for physical therapists in Tennessee is excellent. There are numerous job openings throughout the state, in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and private practices. The highest concentration of jobs is in the Nashville metropolitan area, but there are also many opportunities in other parts of the state, including Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Memphis.

Competition

The competition for physical therapist jobs in Tennessee is moderate. While there are many job openings, there is also a large pool of qualified candidates. To increase your chances of getting a job, it is important to have a strong resume and cover letter, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

In the realm of healthcare professions, physical therapists in Tennessee earn a respectable salary. Their expertise in rehabilitation and movement therapy translates into a comfortable living. However, if you’re curious about the financial prospects of medical billers in Ohio, you may find this informative article particularly helpful: How Much Does a Medical Biller Make an Hour in Ohio . Returning to our focus on Tennessee, physical therapists continue to be highly valued members of the healthcare team, with their salaries reflecting their significant contributions to patient well-being.

Salary Ranges

Physical therapists in Tennessee earn a wide range of salaries depending on several factors. These include experience, location, and specialization.

Experience

• Entry-level physical therapists with less than 5 years of experience earn an average of $75,000 per year.
• Mid-career physical therapists with 5 to 10 years of experience earn an average of $85,000 per year.
• Experienced physical therapists with over 10 years of experience earn an average of $95,000 per year.

Location

The location of a physical therapist’s practice can also affect their salary. Physical therapists working in metropolitan areas, such as Nashville or Memphis, tend to earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas.

Specialization

Physical therapists who specialize in certain areas, such as orthopedics or sports medicine, may earn higher salaries than those who work in general practice.

Benefits and Compensation

Physical therapists in Tennessee enjoy a competitive benefits package that includes:

• Health insurance with comprehensive coverage options
• Retirement plans with employer contributions and matching options
• Paid time off for vacations, sick days, and personal days

The specific benefits package offered may vary depending on the employer, but these core benefits are generally consistent across the industry.

Health Insurance, How much does a physical therapist make in tennessee

Health insurance is a critical benefit for physical therapists, who often work with patients who have complex medical conditions. The typical health insurance plan offered by Tennessee employers includes:

• Medical coverage with low deductibles and co-pays
• Prescription drug coverage
• Dental and vision coverage

Retirement Plans

Retirement plans are another important benefit for physical therapists. The most common type of retirement plan offered by Tennessee employers is a 401(k) plan. 401(k) plans allow employees to save for retirement on a pre-tax basis. Employers often make matching contributions to 401(k) plans, which can help employees save even more for retirement.

In Tennessee, the average annual salary for physical therapists is around $85,000. This translates to a monthly income of approximately $7,083. For a more in-depth look at the monthly earnings of physical therapists, you can refer to our article on how much does a physical therapist make a month . This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the factors that influence physical therapist salaries in different states and regions.

Paid Time Off

Paid time off is another valuable benefit for physical therapists. The typical paid time off package offered by Tennessee employers includes:

• Vacation days
• Sick days
• Personal days

The number of paid time off days varies depending on the employer, but most physical therapists receive at least two weeks of paid vacation per year.

Career Advancement

Physical therapists in Tennessee have ample opportunities for career advancement through leadership roles, specialization, and continuing education.

Leadership Roles

Physical therapists with experience and leadership skills can pursue management positions, such as clinic director or rehabilitation manager. These roles involve overseeing operations, supervising staff, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care.

Specialization Options

Physical therapists can specialize in specific areas of practice, such as orthopedics, sports medicine, or pediatrics. Specialization requires additional training and certification, but it can significantly enhance career prospects and earning potential.

Continuing Education

Ongoing professional development is essential for career advancement in physical therapy. Physical therapists are required to complete continuing education hours to maintain their license. Attending conferences, workshops, and online courses can help physical therapists stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field and enhance their skills.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Tennessee for physical therapists is generally affordable compared to other states in the U.S. Housing costs, transportation expenses, and healthcare costs are all relatively low in the state.

Housing costs vary depending on the region of the state, with larger cities like Nashville and Memphis having higher housing prices than smaller towns and rural areas. The median home price in Tennessee is around $250,000, which is lower than the national median home price of $375,300.

Transportation costs are also relatively low in Tennessee. The state has a well-developed public transportation system, and gas prices are typically lower than the national average. The average monthly transportation cost for a physical therapist in Tennessee is around $500.

Healthcare costs are also affordable in Tennessee. The state has a number of hospitals and medical centers that provide high-quality care at a reasonable cost. The average monthly healthcare cost for a physical therapist in Tennessee is around $200.

Regional Differences

The cost of living in Tennessee can vary depending on the region of the state. The following table compares the cost of living in different regions of Tennessee:

As you can see, the cost of living is highest in Nashville and lowest in Knoxville and Chattanooga. However, it is important to note that the cost of living in all regions of Tennessee is still relatively affordable compared to other states in the U.S.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the physical therapy profession in Tennessee offers a rewarding career path with competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and ample opportunities for career advancement. With its vibrant job market and affordable cost of living, the Volunteer State presents an attractive destination for physical therapists seeking a fulfilling and lucrative career.

FAQ Corner: How Much Does A Physical Therapist Make In Tennessee

What factors influence physical therapist salaries in Tennessee?

Experience, location, specialization, and employer type all play a role in determining salary levels.

What are the typical benefits offered to physical therapists in Tennessee?

Health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities are common benefits.

What are the career advancement opportunities for physical therapists in Tennessee?

Leadership roles, specialization options, and continuing education can lead to career progression.