Physical Therapist Assistants Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

In Chicago and the surrounding Illinois-Indiana area, Physical Therapist Assistants earn a median annual salary of $67,670, which is slightly above the national median of $65,510. This translates to a median hourly wage of $32.53. When compared to the local household income in this region, where the median stands at $88,850 annually, the earnings for Physical Therapist Assistants account for approximately 76% of the average household's income. Given that there are about 2,960 individuals employed in this occupation in the area, it highlights a significant role within the healthcare sector amidst a local unemployment rate of 5.10%.

Entry-level Physical Therapist Assistants typically earn closer to the lower end of the salary spectrum, with salaries around $59,640 at the 10th percentile and $61,300 at the 25th percentile. In contrast, those more experienced can see earnings rise significantly, reaching up to $97,190 at the 90th percentile and $77,400 at the 75th percentile. The disparity in earnings is driven by several factors including years of experience, level of education, the specific healthcare setting (e.g., hospital versus outpatient clinic), regional demand for services, and additional certifications or specializations that can enhance a therapist's expertise and market value. This progression underscores the potential for career growth within this field as professionals gain more experience and develop their skills.