How Physical Therapists in Colorado get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Colorado compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $92,100 | $70,000 | $119,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $114,400 | $87,000 | $148,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $131,600 | $100,000 | $171,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $157,900 | $120,000 | $205,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $178,900 | $136,000 | $232,500 |
Pay varies sharply within Colorado. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Colorado |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | $132,500 | $100,700 | $172,200 | +1% |
Top occupations by median pay in Colorado — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Colorado
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Physical Therapist salary in Colorado is $131,600 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $100,000 and the 75th at $171,000.
Pay-wise, Colorado sits +17% above the national Physical Therapist median ($112,500). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Physical Therapists (10–14 years of experience) in Colorado earn around $157,900 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $178,900 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Colorado ranks 10th for Physical Therapist pay. The highest-paying state pays around $157,400 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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