What is a Respiratory Therapist’s Salary for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought attention to previously overlooked aspects of healthcare. These include a deeper appreciation for the vital function of breathing and the crucial role of Respiratory Therapists (RTs). RTs assist not only COVID-19 patients but also those with respiratory conditions, alleviating breathing difficulties and improving their quality of life. As such, important to consider respiratory therapist salary as a reflection of their valued contributions to the field.

In line with this growing recognition, the respiratory therapy field is projected to grow by 14% from 2021 to 2031 (US BLS, 2022). This increasing demand for RTs underscores the significance of respiratory therapy programs online and on campus. These programs offer education and training opportunities to aspiring professionals, equipping them with skills and knowledge to address the respiratory healthcare needs of the population.

In this guide, our team of researchers gathered information about how much does RT make, the top states, cities, and industries where they can earn the most, how they fare compared to other medical field occupations, and how to increase their salary.

Respiratory Therapist Salary Table of Contents

What is the average respiratory therapist salary?
Respiratory Therapist Salary by State
Highest Paying Cities for a Respiratory Therapist
Highest Paying Industries to Work as a Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory Therapist Salary Vs. Other Top Medical Field Jobs
How to Increase Respiratory Therapist Salary
Career Progression and Advanced Roles for Respiratory Therapists
Educational and Professional Development Pathways for Respiratory Therapists
Can Interdisciplinary Education Enhance a Respiratory Therapist’s Career?
How Can Respiratory Therapists Leverage Pharmacological Expertise to Optimize Patient Care?
How Can Respiratory Therapists Benefit from Mentorship and Networking?
Can Healthcare Administration Skills Boost a Respiratory Therapist’s Career?
How Can Interdisciplinary Education Enhance a Respiratory Therapist's Career Prospects?
What are the most common challenges respiratory therapists face?
How Can Respiratory Therapists Manage Stress and Prevent Burnout?
What Opportunities Exist for Respiratory Therapists in Public Health?
Emerging Trends and Future Opportunities in Respiratory Therapy

What is the average respiratory therapist salary?

A respiratory therapy degree can be a practical and promising decision for students interested in joining the rapidly growing healthcare field. These dedicated professionals assist individuals with heart or lung issues to improve their breathing and overall quality of life. They provide essential care in hospitals and outpatient centers while collaborating with other healthcare professionals.

Beyond the undeniable positive impact of respiratory therapists on their patients’ lives, the financial aspect of this career is also worth noting. So, how much do respiratory therapists make? On average, a respiratory therapist salary per hour is $29.94, which translates to a yearly salary of $61,594 (PayScale, 2023).

For those just starting their careers, respiratory therapists with less than one year of experience can expect an average total compensation of $25.12 per hour (PayScale, 2023). This includes tips, bonuses, and overtime pay. These initial respiratory therapist salary figures lay a foundation for growth and advancement as professionals gain more experience in the field.

As respiratory therapists accumulate years of experience, their potential for increased earning opportunities expands, too. Each year, they can further establish themselves as skilled professionals, often resulting in higher compensation and recognition for their expertise.

Respiratory Therapist Salary by State

The respiratory therapist salary varies significantly across different states in the United States. The states with the highest paid respiratory therapists are California ($96,150), New York ($91,410), Alaska ($88,490), the District of Columbia ($86,250), and Washington ($86,130) (US BLS, 2023). It is important to note that, except for Alaska, respiratory therapists must hold a valid license in every state.

Moreover, these top-paying states tend to have a higher cost of living than the national average, including increased housing and transportation expenses. This is also the reason why these are considered the best places to work as a nurse. As a result, healthcare employers in these states must offer competitive salaries to attract and retain highly qualified respiratory therapy professionals. Providing an excellent respiratory therapist salary ensures that these professionals are motivated to work in these states and can meet the elevated living expenses. This, in turn, helps to maintain a skilled and proficient workforce capable of effectively addressing the respiratory healthcare needs of the population in these regions.

On the contrary, the states with the lowest median annual salaries for RTs are Maine ($40,166), Arkansas ($41,765), Rhode Island ($43,015), New Mexico ($46,001), and Kentucky ($46,570) (Zippia, 2023). RTs in these states may face relatively lower earnings, which could be attributed to lower demand for respiratory therapy services or a lower cost of living. That said, we must consider the regional context when evaluating the respiratory therapist salary and the corresponding factors that contribute to these variations. The same rule applies to all professions, including medical coding salary.

Highest Paying Cities for a Respiratory Therapist

When it comes to the highest-paying cities for respiratory therapists, the northern and central California metropolitan areas stand out. These cities offer some of the most attractive average salaries that surpass the national median. This trend can be attributed to these regions’ high cost of living, which drives up healthcare professionals’ compensation.

Among the notable cities in California that provide the highest salaries for respiratory therapists are San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward ($117,060), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($116,100), Santa Rosa ($107,750), Vallejo-Fairfield ($107,570), and Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade ($104,500) (US BLS, 2023).

For aspiring respiratory therapists, these highest-paying cities in California present attractive options when considering career opportunities and potential financial stability. The high salaries in these areas reflect the demand for skilled professionals and the value placed on respiratory therapy services. In addition, those who are interested in how to become a registered nurse will also find California a favorable place to work.

Moreover, individuals looking to advance their careers in respiratory therapy can explore the option of pursuing short doctoral programs online. These programs offer the flexibility and convenience that respiratory therapists need to continue their education while working in the field. By obtaining a Doctorate in Research Therapy, professionals can specialize in specific areas, potentially opening doors to higher-paying positions and greater professional growth.

Highest Paying Industries to Work as a Respiratory Therapist

For respiratory therapists seeking a rewarding career that combines professional fulfillment with financial prosperity, exploring the highest-paying industries in their field opens up a world of opportunities. These industries recognize the value of respiratory therapists’ skills and offer attractive compensation packages, making them ideal choices for a financially stable career.

Residential Care Facilities, Except Skilled Nursing Facilities. This industry provides a serene environment where compassionate care merges seamlessly with lucrative opportunities. In these settings, respiratory therapists can expect to earn an average annual wage of $78,875 (Data USA, 2020). Here, RTs utilize their expertise to provide comprehensive respiratory care, manage ventilation equipment, and ensure patient comfort.
Outpatient Care Centers. In this industry, respiratory therapists dwell in a fast-paced and diverse work environment where patients seek different respiratory services, presenting various cases and opportunities for impact. In this setting, RTs can earn an average yearly wage of $63,444 as they work collaboratively with medical professionals to administer treatments, provide follow-up care, and educate patients on self-care (Data USA, 2020).
Professional and Commercial Equipment and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers. This industry rewards respiratory therapists with an average annual pay of $63,118 (Data USA, 2020). Here, RTs ensure the availability and proper utilization of respiratory equipment and supplies while providing training and education to healthcare personnel.

Respiratory Therapist Salary Vs. Other Top Medical Field Jobs

When it comes to salaries in the medical field, respiratory therapists hold a favorable position. With a median annual salary of $61,594, respiratory therapists yield earnings similar to the highest-paid professionals in the industry. For example, Nuclear Medicine Technologists earn a median annual salary of $78,760, Registered Nurses receive $77,600, Diagnostic Medical Sonographers bring in $77,740, and Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians earn $60,570 (US BLS, 2022). On the other hand, graduates of online veterinary technician programs which is an associate’s degree, receive an average salary of $36, 850 (US BLS, 2022).

Professionals in this discipline can also find ways to further increase their earning potential, such as pursuing further education. As such, one can opt for the best online RN to BSN program that provides a convenient and flexible pathway to enhance medical knowledge and skills. These programs cater to the needs of working professionals, allowing them to continue their education while juggling their existing commitments and responsibilities.

How to Increase Respiratory Therapist Salary

As with any field, there are various strategies that respiratory therapists can do to increase their income. Exploring strategies like advanced education and seeking employment in high-demand areas or industries can pave the way toward a higher respiratory therapist salary while enhancing skills and expertise in the field.

Enhance Your Level of Education

Respiratory therapists typically hold an associate degree as the most common educational requirement, with 70% of professionals in the field obtaining this degree. However, pursuing further education is viable for those seeking increased earning potential and expanded career opportunities. With 22% of respiratory therapists holding a bachelor’s degree and 3% possessing a master’s degree, advanced education opens doors to higher-paying positions and greater professional growth (Zippia, n.d.).

RTs should select a program with programmatic accreditation from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) when considering the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) certifications. According to Payscale (2023), the registered respiratory therapist salary average per year exceeds $63,000, surpassing the average annual pay of certified respiratory therapists. This highlights the financial benefits of pursuing higher education and acquiring professional certifications.

Moreover, respiratory therapists can pursue higher education, such as a bachelor’s degree, which not only leads to a higher respiratory care practitioner salary but also serves as a stepping stone for advanced degrees. For example, they can consider RN MSN online programs or even opt for a graduate certificate, further enhancing career prospects and expertise.

Career Progression and Advanced Roles for Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory therapy offers significant potential for career growth and specialization, allowing professionals to expand their expertise, take on advanced roles, and increase their earning potential. By leveraging education, experience, and certification, respiratory therapists can shape their career trajectories to suit their aspirations.

Specialized Roles in Respiratory Therapy

Respiratory therapists can move into specialized roles that command higher salaries and offer new challenges:

Pulmonary Function Technologists: These specialists focus on conducting advanced diagnostic tests to assess lung function, often working closely with pulmonologists. With additional certification, pulmonary function technologists can increase their earning potential and contribute to cutting-edge respiratory care.
Sleep Disorder Specialists: In this role, RTs help diagnose and treat patients with conditions like sleep apnea. This specialization often requires additional training and certifications such as the Sleep Disorders Specialist (SDS) credential.
Neonatal-Pediatric Specialists: RTs who focus on neonatal and pediatric care work with critically ill infants and children in NICUs or pediatric ICUs. This challenging yet rewarding specialization involves advanced skills in ventilation and life support systems.

Leadership and Administrative Roles

Experienced respiratory therapists can transition into leadership or administrative positions:

Respiratory Therapy Manager: This role involves overseeing a team of RTs, managing schedules, ensuring adherence to protocols, and improving departmental efficiency.
Director of Respiratory Care: As a director, RTs handle budgeting, policy development, and strategic planning for the respiratory care department in hospitals or large healthcare organizations.
Hospital Administrator: With further education, RTs can transition into broader administrative roles, such as hospital administrators. Advanced degrees like a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can pave the way for these opportunities. For more on earning potential in advanced roles, explore how much do DNP make.

Advanced Education Opportunities

Respiratory therapists looking to increase their knowledge and salary often pursue advanced degrees. Options include:

Bachelor’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT): Many employers prefer or require a bachelor’s degree for supervisory roles. Online programs allow working professionals to complete their education while maintaining their jobs.
Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration (MHA): This degree prepares RTs for leadership roles, equipping them with skills in policy development, financial management, and organizational leadership.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): For RTs interested in clinical leadership, a DNP program offers a pathway to higher salaries and specialized roles, such as advanced practice nurses or healthcare executives.

Research and Academia

Respiratory therapists with a passion for education or research can transition into academia or research-based roles. These professionals may teach future RTs, contribute to groundbreaking studies, or publish findings that influence the future of respiratory care.

Educational and Professional Development Pathways for Respiratory Therapists

Becoming a successful respiratory therapist requires a well-rounded educational foundation and continuous professional development. While the minimum requirement is typically an Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy, many respiratory therapists pursue further education to enhance their skills and open doors to higher-paying opportunities.

For those looking to advance their careers, pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Respiratory Therapy or even a master's degree can lead to leadership roles or specialized areas like pulmonary rehabilitation or neonatal respiratory care. Further academic credentials also increase your earning potential, enabling you to take on more complex responsibilities in clinical settings or management.

In addition to formal education, certification is a key component of a respiratory therapist’s professional development. The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) certifications are widely recognized and can significantly boost job prospects and salary potential. Obtaining advanced certifications, such as the Neonatal/Pediatric Respiratory Care Specialist (NPS), can position RTs for roles that require specialized expertise.

Moreover, for those seeking flexibility, online programs have become a popular choice. Online options for accredited respiratory therapy degrees offer a convenient way to earn a degree while continuing to work. Alongside educational advancement, continuous professional development through workshops, seminars, and conferences is essential for staying up-to-date with the latest medical practices and technologies.

For those considering a shift to administrative or coding roles in healthcare, exploring accredited medical billing and coding schools can be a beneficial alternative. This could provide an opportunity to leverage your healthcare knowledge in a growing field.

By pursuing ongoing education and certifications, respiratory therapists can not only advance their careers but also enhance the quality of care they provide to their patients.

Can Interdisciplinary Education Enhance a Respiratory Therapist’s Career?

Respiratory therapists can maximize their impact and career growth by integrating interdisciplinary studies into their professional development. Advanced coursework in fields such as pharmaceutical sciences, healthcare management, or biomedical research can augment clinical expertise and open doors to leadership and research roles. For instance, pursuing a pharmacy degree online can provide unique insights into medication management and innovative treatment approaches that complement respiratory care. This cross-disciplinary approach not only enhances problem-solving skills but also increases adaptability in an evolving healthcare environment.

How Can Respiratory Therapists Leverage Pharmacological Expertise to Optimize Patient Care?

Integrating pharmacological insights into respiratory care can strengthen clinical decision-making and minimize medication-related complications. By understanding drug mechanisms, potential side effects, and interactions, respiratory therapists can collaborate more effectively with medical professionals to design comprehensive treatment plans. Exploring interdisciplinary education modules, such as reviewing the qualifications for pharmacist, offers a pathway to acquiring complementary knowledge that enhances patient safety and outcomes.

How Can Respiratory Therapists Benefit from Mentorship and Networking?

Mentorship and networking are vital for respiratory therapists aiming to accelerate career growth and deepen clinical competency. Experienced mentors provide guidance on advanced certifications, evolving treatment protocols, and strategies to navigate regulatory complexities without replicating standard educational content. Simultaneously, active engagement in professional organizations and industry conferences enhances access to innovative practices and collaborative problem-solving. Furthermore, participation in programs such as the fast track medical assistant program can broaden interdisciplinary knowledge and reinforce skills essential for effective team integration.

Can Healthcare Administration Skills Boost a Respiratory Therapist’s Career?

Respiratory therapists can benefit from integrating healthcare administration training with their clinical expertise to access new leadership roles and improve operational efficiency in care settings. Such interdisciplinary skills enable professionals to contribute more effectively to strategic decision-making and policy development within their organizations, creating a bridge between patient care and management. For individuals looking to enhance their qualifications and expand their career trajectory, exploring programs like the quickest online bachelor's degree in healthcare administration can provide valuable insights into healthcare management and operational strategies.

How Can Interdisciplinary Education Enhance a Respiratory Therapist's Career Prospects?

Expanding professional competence beyond core clinical skills is increasingly vital in today’s multidisciplinary healthcare environment. Respiratory therapists can augment their expertise by integrating cross-disciplinary studies in fields such as pharmacology, healthcare management, and biomedical research. This approach supports improved clinical decision-making and opens pathways to specialized roles and leadership positions. For example, aligning respiratory care with advanced pharmaceutical studies may offer a competitive edge through a robust understanding of drug therapies and innovative treatment methodologies, as seen in the fastest Pharm D programs.

What are the most common challenges respiratory therapists face?

Respiratory therapists (RTs) encounter various challenges in their daily work that go beyond patient care. These challenges can impact job satisfaction, work-life balance, and overall career longevity. Here are some common difficulties that respiratory therapists may face:

High-Stress Environment: RTs often work in high-pressure situations, particularly in emergency rooms or intensive care units (ICUs), where patients require immediate and critical care. The intensity of these settings can lead to stress and burnout.
Shift Work and Irregular Hours: Respiratory therapy is a 24/7 field, which means RTs may have to work nights, weekends, or holidays. Irregular schedules can disrupt sleep patterns and personal life, making it difficult to maintain a work-life balance.
Physical Demands: The job requires RTs to be on their feet for long hours, moving equipment, and assisting patients. Lifting or repositioning patients can also pose a risk of injury, especially when dealing with heavy ventilators or portable oxygen tanks.
Emotional Strain: Working with critically ill patients, including children and older adults, can take an emotional toll. Witnessing patients' suffering or dealing with the loss of life can contribute to compassion fatigue or emotional burnout.
Keeping Up with Technological Advances: As the medical field evolves, new respiratory equipment, treatments, and technologies are introduced. RTs need continuous education and training to stay updated, which can be time-consuming.
Exposure to Infectious Diseases: RTs are at a higher risk of exposure to airborne pathogens like influenza, tuberculosis, or COVID-19 due to their close work with patients experiencing respiratory problems. This requires stringent adherence to infection control measures.
Documentation and Administrative Tasks: Besides patient care, RTs are responsible for thorough documentation of treatments, progress notes, and insurance-related paperwork. These administrative duties can be time-consuming and detract from direct patient care.
Staffing Shortages: Many healthcare facilities face staffing challenges, resulting in a higher patient-to-staff ratio. This can increase the workload for RTs, leading to longer shifts and potential fatigue.

Improve Your Professional Experience

PayScale (2023) states that an entry-level respiratory therapist salary with less than one year of experience is around $25.12. As professionals gain more experience, the median total pay increases. Those in the early career phase (one to four years of experience) earn about $27.15, while mid-career respiratory therapists (five to nine years of experience) earn an average of $29.64. With extensive experience, Respiratory Therapists with 10 to 19 years of experience make around $31.84. In the late career phase (20 years and beyond), respiratory therapists’ average compensation is approximately $34. These respiratory specialists salary figures highlight the progressive increase in earnings as Respiratory Therapists gain more experience in their field.

Opt for a Different Industry to Work In

Experienced professionals can consider transitioning to industries that offer higher compensation for their expertise and services. By exploring positions in the highest-paying industries within the field, respiratory therapists salary can improve. These professionals must conduct thorough research to identify job opportunities in industries where their skills and services are most valued and rewarded. By strategically targeting these industries, respiratory therapists can increase their salaries and secure better financial prospects.

Think About Relocation

Relocating to states with higher salaries in respiratory therapy can be a strategic move for professionals looking to enhance their earning potential. As mentioned, California, New York, and Alaska have job opportunities with Respiratory Therapists’ salaries that exceed the national median. By tapping into job markets in these states, respiratory therapists may find opportunities that provide financial rewards and a higher standard of living. However, individuals must research and assess the job market, cost of living, and other factors before relocating.

How Can Respiratory Therapists Manage Stress and Prevent Burnout?

In a high-pressure healthcare environment, respiratory therapists often encounter extended shifts and emotionally taxing situations that can lead to stress and burnout. Effective stress management strategies include prioritizing self-care, leveraging peer support, and engaging in professional counseling. Additionally, cultivating time management skills and practicing mindfulness can lead to improved job satisfaction and enhanced patient care. Diversifying skills through short courses or alternative training options, such as the low cost medical coding and billing online program, offers a pathway to broaden career options while alleviating work-related pressures.

What Opportunities Exist for Respiratory Therapists in Public Health?

Respiratory therapists can explore various opportunities in public health, including roles in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies. These professionals can contribute to the development of policies, programs, and initiatives that promote respiratory health and prevent respiratory diseases. For those interested in pursuing a career in public health, considering an affordable MPH online degree can provide the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this field. By combining their expertise in respiratory care with a thorough understanding of public health principles, respiratory therapists can make a significant impact on population health and contribute to the development of effective solutions to address respiratory health issues.

Emerging Trends and Future Opportunities in Respiratory Therapy

The evolving healthcare landscape presents various emerging trends and future opportunities for respiratory therapists. As advancements in medical technology and innovative treatment methods continue to shape the industry, respiratory therapy is becoming a more dynamic and specialized field.

Telehealth Integration for Respiratory Care

The adoption of telehealth services has gained momentum, allowing respiratory therapists to remotely monitor and manage patients with chronic respiratory conditions, such as COPD and asthma. Telehealth enables RTs to provide ongoing support, adjust treatment plans, and offer patient education without the need for frequent in-person visits. This trend is expected to grow, opening career opportunities in telemedicine platforms and virtual care clinics.

Artificial Intelligence and Data Analysis

Artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are revolutionizing respiratory care by providing new tools for diagnosis and treatment. In the future, respiratory therapists may leverage AI-driven diagnostic instruments and predictive models to tailor interventions for patients. Knowledge in data analysis and familiarity with AI applications could position RTs for advanced roles in technology-integrated healthcare environments.

Focus on Preventative Care

Healthcare systems are increasingly emphasizing preventative care to reduce hospital admissions and improve long-term health outcomes. Respiratory therapists may play a greater role in community health initiatives, working to promote smoking cessation, respiratory health screenings, and educational programs on air pollution and occupational safety.

Expansion into Critical Care and Specialized Units

As medical facilities enhance their critical care capabilities, there is expected to be a higher demand for respiratory therapists in intensive care units, neonatal intensive care units, and specialized surgical centers. Advanced certifications in neonatal/pediatric care or critical care may provide RTs with a competitive edge in these high-demand areas.

Global Opportunities and International Collaborations

With respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD being global health concerns, international collaborations and programs funded by global health organizations are increasing. Respiratory therapists may find opportunities to contribute their expertise to global health projects aimed at improving respiratory care in under-resourced regions. Such initiatives allow RTs to expand their professional horizons while addressing critical healthcare needs worldwide.

Increased Role in Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are gaining recognition as effective treatment methods for patients recovering from lung injuries or living with chronic conditions. Respiratory therapists will likely see expanded roles within these programs, focusing on exercise training, patient education, and psychological support to improve patients' overall quality of life.

By staying informed about these trends and seeking opportunities to expand their skill sets, respiratory therapists can position themselves at the forefront of the field, ensuring both professional growth and the delivery of cutting-edge care. For those balancing work and education, pursuing the easiest online degrees can provide a flexible and efficient way to advance their qualifications and career prospects.

Pursue a Career as a Respiratory Therapist

A respiratory therapist often gains well-deserved recognition in the medical field. With specialized training and Respiratory Therapist Certifications, this professional’s role expands across the healthcare continuum. Notably, the field also offers an attractive respiratory therapist salary that reflects the practice’s importance.

The current employment outlook is promising for students considering a career in respiratory therapy. This is an ideal time to invest in education and pursue the necessary qualifications to become a respiratory therapist. Furthermore, exploring options like BSN DNP online programs can provide individuals with the knowledge and skills required to excel in this field. These programs are accessible and flexible options for individuals looking to enhance their qualifications and expertise and prepare them for higher-level roles and responsibilities. Seizing this opportunity to join the ranks of valued professionals allows individuals to significantly impact the lives of those with respiratory conditions and other health challenges.

Key Insights

High Demand and Job Growth: The respiratory therapy field is projected to grow by 14% from 2021 to 2031, indicating a strong demand for respiratory therapists.
Competitive Salaries: On average, respiratory therapists earn $61,594 annually, with top earners in California making up to $96,150 per year.
Regional Variations: States like California, New York, and Alaska offer higher salaries for respiratory therapists compared to states like Maine and Arkansas.
Top Cities for Earnings: The highest-paying cities for respiratory therapists are primarily in California, with San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara leading the list.
Industry Opportunities: Residential care facilities, outpatient care centers, and professional equipment wholesalers are among the highest-paying industries for respiratory therapists.
Comparison with Other Medical Fields: Respiratory therapists' salaries are competitive with those of other medical professionals like nuclear medicine technologists and registered nurses.
Strategies for Salary Increase: Pursuing advanced education, gaining professional experience, working in higher-paying industries, and relocating to high-paying states can significantly enhance a respiratory therapist's salary.

FAQ

1. What is the average salary for a respiratory therapist?

The average salary for a respiratory therapist is $61,594 annually, or $29.94 per hour. Entry-level respiratory therapists with less than one year of experience can expect to earn around $25.12 per hour.

2. Which states offer the highest salaries for respiratory therapists?

The highest-paying states for respiratory therapists are California ($96,150), New York ($91,410), Alaska ($88,490), the District of Columbia ($86,250), and Washington ($86,130).

3. What are the top-paying cities for respiratory therapists?

The top-paying cities for respiratory therapists are in California, including San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward ($117,060), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($116,100), Santa Rosa ($107,750), Vallejo-Fairfield ($107,570), and Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade ($104,500).

4. What industries pay the highest salaries to respiratory therapists?

The highest-paying industries for respiratory therapists include residential care facilities (except skilled nursing facilities) with an average annual wage of $78,875, outpatient care centers ($63,444), and professional and commercial equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers ($63,118).

5. How does the salary of a respiratory therapist compare to other medical field jobs?

Respiratory therapists have a median annual salary of $61,594, which is competitive with other medical field jobs such as nuclear medicine technologists ($78,760), registered nurses ($77,600), and diagnostic medical sonographers ($77,740).

6. What educational qualifications are required to become a respiratory therapist?

Most respiratory therapists hold an associate degree. However, pursuing further education such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree can lead to higher-paying positions and greater professional growth.

7. How can respiratory therapists increase their salaries?

Respiratory therapists can increase their salaries by pursuing advanced education, gaining professional experience, transitioning to higher-paying industries, and relocating to states or cities with higher salary opportunities.

8. What are the benefits of obtaining certifications for respiratory therapists?

Obtaining certifications like the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) can enhance a respiratory therapist's earning potential. Registered respiratory therapists earn an average salary exceeding $63,000 per year, higher than certified respiratory therapists.

9. Is relocating to a higher-paying state a good strategy for increasing a respiratory therapist's salary?

Relocating to states with higher salaries, such as California, New York, and Alaska, can be a good strategy for respiratory therapists to increase their earning potential. However, they should consider the cost of living and job market conditions in these states.

10. What is the job outlook for respiratory therapists?

The job outlook for respiratory therapists is promising, with a projected employment growth rate of 14% from 2021 to 2031. This growth indicates a strong demand for respiratory therapists in the healthcare field.