In Washington, DC, Physical Therapists earn a median of $103,070 a year — about 3% above the U.S. median of $100,440. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #18.
What that pay is worth in Washington
Local prices run 109 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $108,880 salary buys less than it looks — about $99,996 in national-average buying power.
Can Physical Therapists afford a home in Washington?
A typical Washington home runs about $724,600 — 6.7 times the average Physical Therapist salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,900/mo takes roughly 21% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Physical Therapist pay ladder in Washington
Entry-level (10th percentile) Physical Therapists earn about $81,010; the top 10% reach $138,680 — a $57,670 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Physical Therapist job market in Washington
Washington employs roughly 4,490 Physical Therapists. Metro unemployment sits near 4.3%, a fairly balanced hiring market.
Compare Washington with other cities
See the full Physical Therapist salary by city ranking to weigh Washington against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Physical Therapists make in Washington?
The average Physical Therapist in Washington, DC earns about $108,880 per year, 8.4% above the national average of $100,440.
What is the take-home pay for Physical Therapists in Washington after taxes?
After federal and DC taxes, this $108,880 salary is worth about $79,140 a year - roughly $6,595 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 27%.
What do the highest-paid Physical Therapists earn in Washington?
The top 10% of Physical Therapists in Washington earn about $138,680 a year, versus about $81,010 for the bottom 10%.
Can Physical Therapists afford a home in Washington?
A typical Washington home runs about $724,600 - roughly 6.7x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.