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Respiratory Therapist salary
Respiratory therapists treat patients who have trouble breathing due to chronic conditions or emergencies.
Median annual
$78,000
Median hourly
$38
Top 10% earn
$98,000+
Salary range
Bottom 10%$60,000
Median$78,000
Top 10%$98,000
Respiratory Therapist salary by experience level
How pay typically progresses from a first job to a senior role, modelled from the reported national pay distribution.
| Experience | Years | Annual | Hourly | vs median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry level | 0–2 years | $62,900 | $30 | -19% |
| Early career | 2–5 years | $71,400 | $34 | -8% |
| Mid career | 5–10 years | $81,200 | $39 | +4% |
| Senior / experienced | 10+ years | $92,700 | $45 | +19% |
- Entry level: Starting pay for newly qualified respiratory therapists, before specialisation or overtime.
- Early career: Pay rises quickly once you can work independently and take on harder assignments.
- Mid career: Most workers sit around this level, often with a specialism or a first supervisory role.
- Senior / experienced: Lead, senior or management roles, plus the highest-paying employers and locations.
Career details
Education
Associate or bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy plus licensure.
Job outlook
13% growth through 2033 — much faster than average.
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