Respiratory therapy is a highly specialized field, and it’s no surprise that respiratory therapists are in high demand. But when it comes to salary ranges, how much can you expect to earn as a respiratory therapist? In this article, we will explore the average salary range for respiratory therapists and provide some insights into why these salaries vary so significantly.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for respiratory therapists in May 2019 was $70,280. However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, such as location, experience level, and specialty area. Let’s take a closer look at some of these factors.
Location:
One of the biggest factors that can impact salary for respiratory therapists is location. For example, respiratory therapists in states like California and New York tend to earn higher salaries than those in rural areas or lower-cost cities. This is due in part to the higher cost of living in these areas and the greater demand for respiratory therapists in urban centers.
Experience Level:
Another factor that can impact salary for respiratory therapists is experience level. Those with more years of experience are generally paid more than those who are just starting out in their careers. For example, a senior respiratory therapist with 20+ years of experience may earn significantly more than a junior respiratory therapist who has only been working for a few years.
Specialty Area:
Respiratory therapists can also specialize in a particular area, such as pediatrics or critical care. Those who specialize in these areas may be paid more due to the high demand for their expertise. For example, a pediatric respiratory therapist working in a children’s hospital in a major metropolitan area may earn more than a general respiratory therapist working in a rural clinic.
FAQs:
- What are the factors that can impact salary for respiratory therapists?
- Location, experience level, and specialty area are all factors that can impact salary for respiratory therapists.
- How much do respiratory therapists earn in California?
- According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for respiratory therapists in California was $91,340 as of May 2019.
- Can respiratory therapists specialize in a particular area?
- Yes, respiratory therapists can specialize in areas such as pediatrics or critical care, which may impact their salary.
In conclusion, the salary range for respiratory therapists can vary significantly depending on a number of factors. While the median annual wage for respiratory therapists in the US is around $70,280, this can be higher or lower depending on location, experience level, and specialty area. As the demand for respiratory therapists continues to grow, we can expect salaries to increase as well. If you’re interested in becoming a respiratory therapist, it’s important to do your research and understand what you can expect when it comes to salary.
+ There are no comments
Add yours