Physical Therapist vs Physician Assistant salary
In United States, a physician assistant earns about 45% more than a physical therapist — $159,000 vs $110,000 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Healthcare
Physician Assistant$159,000/yr
- Monthly
- $13,300
- Hourly
- $76
- Range
- $116,100–$211,500
- 10-yr outlook
- +27%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Physical Therapist | Physician Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $82,300 | $116,100 |
| 25th | $96,100 | $137,500 |
| Median | $110,000 | $159,000 |
| 75th | $126,900 | $185,200 |
| Senior (90th) | $143,900 | $211,500 |
National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a physical therapist or physician assistant earn more in United States?
- A physician assistant earns more, at about $159,000 per year vs $110,000 for a physical therapist — roughly 45% ($49,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
- A physical therapist typically earns $82,300–$143,900, while a physician assistant earns $116,100–$211,500 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a physical therapist averages about $9,200 and a physician assistant about $13,300.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United States, a physical therapist earns about $82,300 while a physician assistant earns about $116,100 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United States, a physical therapist earns about $143,900 while a physician assistant earns about $211,500 per year.
- Are physical therapist and physician assistant similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Healthcare category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.