Respiratory therapist salary in the USA continues to be one of the most important factors for individuals choosing this rewarding healthcare career. In 2025, the role of respiratory therapists has become even more vital, especially with the growing demand for specialized care in hospitals, clinics, and home health settings. If you’re considering joining this profession or looking to negotiate a better pay package, understanding the current salary trends is essential.
In this guide, we provide the latest data on the average respiratory therapist salary, compare pay across states, explore hourly wages, benefits, and job outlook, and share strategies to help you increase your earnings.
Average Respiratory Therapist Salary in the USA (2025)
According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, the average annual salary for respiratory therapists in 2025 is $75,230, with a median hourly wage of $36.17.
- Lowest 10% earners: Around $56,000 annually
- Highest 10% earners: $95,000+ annually
Pay can vary widely depending on your location, level of experience, education, and the type of healthcare facility you work in.
Respiratory Therapist Salary by State (2025)
| State | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| California | $102,550 | $49.30 |
| New York | $88,340 | $42.47 |
| Texas | $74,890 | $36.01 |
| Florida | $70,420 | $33.86 |
| Illinois | $76,110 | $36.59 |
| Ohio | $72,300 | $34.76 |
| Georgia | $69,580 | $33.45 |
| Pennsylvania | $74,210 | $35.68 |
| Washington | $86,500 | $41.59 |
| Arizona | $78,320 | $37.66 |
Pro Tip: California remains the top-paying state due to higher living costs and strong healthcare unions.
Hourly Rates vs. Annual Salary
Most respiratory therapists are paid hourly, particularly those working per diem or part-time shifts. The national average hourly rate is $36.17, equivalent to about $75,230 annually for full-time positions.
- Entry-Level: $26–$30/hour
- Mid-Career: $33–$38/hour
- Experienced: $40–$50/hour
Experience Level Impact on Salary
| Experience Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| 0–2 years (Entry) | $58,000 |
| 3–5 years (Mid) | $72,000 |
| 6–10 years | $80,000 |
| 10+ years (Senior) | $90,000+ |
Specialized certifications like Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) or Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS) can significantly boost your earnings.
Benefits and Perks
Aside from base salary, respiratory therapists typically receive:
- Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- 401k retirement plans with employer match
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- Continuing education reimbursement
- Shift differentials for nights, weekends, and holidays
Job Outlook for Respiratory Therapists (2025–2030)
The demand for respiratory therapists is projected to grow 13% from 2025 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is fueled by:
- An aging population with higher rates of chronic lung disease
- Increased cases of respiratory conditions like COPD and asthma
- Advancements in respiratory care equipment and technology
Future Trends in Respiratory Therapist Salaries
Looking ahead, the respiratory therapist salary in the USA is expected to experience steady growth due to several key factors. Advances in medical technology are creating new treatment options for patients with chronic respiratory diseases, increasing the demand for highly skilled therapists. The aging baby boomer population will also require more respiratory care, particularly in long-term and home healthcare settings. Additionally, healthcare employers are beginning to offer more competitive pay packages to retain qualified staff, which may include sign-on bonuses, student loan repayment assistance, and enhanced benefits. For new graduates entering the field in 2025, this means greater opportunities for career advancement and higher earning potential over time.
Salary Comparison with Related Healthcare Careers
When comparing the respiratory therapist salary to other healthcare professions in the USA, the numbers show a competitive position. For example, radiologic technologists earn an average of around $74,000 annually, which is slightly lower than respiratory therapists. On the other hand, ultrasound technicians average about $84,000 per year, and registered nurses earn approximately $89,000 annually. Physical therapists and occupational therapists typically earn higher, with salaries ranging from $94,500 to $98,000. While respiratory therapists may not be at the top of the pay scale, their combination of salary potential, job security, and relatively shorter education pathway makes the role an attractive choice for many entering the healthcare field.
Why Choose a Career as a Respiratory Therapist?
Choosing a career as a respiratory therapist offers a unique balance of job stability, personal fulfillment, and strong earning potential. Unlike many other healthcare roles that require a decade or more of education, respiratory therapists can enter the workforce in as little as two years with an associate degree, while still enjoying salaries that rival or surpass those of other medical professions. The work is highly meaningful—helping patients breathe easier, recover from serious illnesses, and improve their quality of life. With a growing demand for skilled professionals and diverse work environments ranging from hospitals to home care, this career path provides both financial security and the opportunity to make a direct, positive impact on people’s lives every day.
Universities Offering Respiratory Therapist Programs
For those interested in pursuing a career as a respiratory therapist, choosing a CoARC-accredited (Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care) program is essential for ensuring both quality education and professional recognition. Some top options in the United States include:
- University of Missouri–Columbia – Offers a Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy with over 1,000 hours of clinical training and a strong pass rate on credentialing exams.
- Midwestern State University – Provides a CoARC-accredited Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care with comprehensive clinical rotations.
- Ohio State University – Offers both undergraduate and graduate respiratory therapy programs with a focus on advanced clinical practice.
- Texas State University – Known for its innovative respiratory care curriculum and strong job placement rates.
Students can also explore programs at Youngstown State University and Northern Kentucky University, which provide hybrid and online learning options while maintaining CoARC accreditation. A complete list of accredited programs can be found on the CoARC official website.
How to Increase Your Salary
- Get Additional Certifications – NPS, ACCS, or Sleep Disorders Specialist (SDS) can add $5,000–$10,000/year.
- Earn a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree – Opens doors to leadership roles.
- Specialize in High-Demand Areas – Neonatal ICU, pulmonary rehab, or emergency care.
- Relocate to High-Paying States – California, Washington, and New York offer top pay.
- Negotiate Your Pay – Use salary reports to strengthen your position during reviews.
A career as a respiratory therapist offers a strong combination of job satisfaction, competitive salary, and future growth. Whether you are just starting or seeking ways to increase your earnings, focusing on experience, certifications, and working in high-demand regions will help you reach your financial and career goals in 2025.
Michael Anderson is a U.S.-based salary and labor market analyst with deep expertise in wage data, career trends, and cost-of-living analysis. At SmartSalaryGuide, he provides reliable, data-driven insights that help readers make informed career and financial decisions. With years of experience studying labor statistics and employment patterns, Michael has developed a reputation for translating complex economic data into clear, actionable guidance. His work empowers professionals, job seekers, and employers alike to better understand the dynamics of today’s job market and plan confidently for the future.