Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Physical Therapist vs Psychiatrist salary

In United States, a psychiatrist earns about 174% more than a physical therapist $301,000 vs $110,000 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Healthcare
Physical Therapist
$110,000/yr
Monthly
$9,200
Hourly
$53
Range
$82,300$143,900
10-yr outlook
+15%
Pays more
Healthcare
Psychiatrist
$301,000/yr
Monthly
$25,100
Hourly
$145
Range
$206,200$416,900
10-yr outlook
+8%

Pay range, side by side

PercentilePhysical TherapistPsychiatrist
Entry (10th)$82,300$206,200
25th$96,100$253,600
Median$110,000$301,000
75th$126,900$358,900
Senior (90th)$143,900$416,900

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 psychiatrist earn more in United States?
A psychiatrist earns more, at about $301,000 per year vs $110,000 for a physical therapist — roughly 174% ($191,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A physical therapist typically earns $82,300–$143,900, while a psychiatrist earns $206,200–$416,900 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 psychiatrist about $25,100.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a physical therapist earns about $82,300 while a psychiatrist earns about $206,200 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a physical therapist earns about $143,900 while a psychiatrist earns about $416,900 per year.
Are physical therapist and psychiatrist 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.