Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Physical Therapists in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $110,100 | $83,700 | $143,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $136,900 | $104,100 | $178,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $157,400 | $119,700 | $204,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $188,800 | $143,600 | $245,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $214,000 | $162,700 | $278,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Physical Therapists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Physical Therapist salary in the Washington metro is $157,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $119,700 to $204,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $259,800 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC state median for Physical Therapists. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Washington vs. national: +40%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for Physical Therapists — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Physical Therapist salary of $157,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Physical Therapists in Washington start around $110,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $188,800 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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