A respiratory therapist is a vital healthcare professional who helps patients with breathing difficulties. With the healthcare sector constantly growing in the United States, the demand for respiratory therapists is strong, and the salaries remain competitive.
If you are considering this career, it is important to understand how much respiratory therapists make in the United States in 2025. This article will cover monthly, hourly, and state-by-state salary details, along with the factors that influence earnings, career outlook, and tips to maximize your income as a respiratory therapist.
What is a Respiratory Therapist?
A respiratory therapist (RT) is a healthcare worker who specializes in diagnosing and treating patients with breathing disorders. They work with patients of all ages, from premature infants with underdeveloped lungs to elderly patients with chronic respiratory illnesses like COPD or asthma.
Key Duties of Respiratory Therapists
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Assess patients with breathing difficulties.
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Administer oxygen therapy and breathing treatments.
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Operate mechanical ventilators for critically ill patients.
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Perform diagnostic tests like measuring lung capacity.
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Educate patients and families about respiratory conditions.
These responsibilities show why respiratory therapists are essential in hospitals, clinics, and home care settings.
Average Respiratory Therapist Salary in the United States (2025)
In 2025, the average respiratory therapist salary in the United States is $79,200 per year, or $6,600 per month. This translates to an hourly wage of about $38.08, based on a standard 40-hour workweek.
This average salary varies depending on factors like experience, education, work setting, and location. New graduates typically earn less, while experienced RTs in high-demand states or specialized settings can earn significantly more.
Monthly Salary Breakdown
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Average Monthly Salary: $6,600
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Entry-Level Monthly Salary: $4,800–$5,300
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Experienced Monthly Salary: $7,500–$9,000
Hourly Salary Breakdown
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Average Hourly Salary: $38.08
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Entry-Level Hourly Salary: $25–$30
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Experienced Hourly Salary: $45–$55
Respiratory Therapist Salary by State (2025)
The state you work in can significantly affect your salary as a respiratory therapist. States with higher costs of living or higher demand for healthcare workers tend to pay more.
State-by-State Salary Table
Below is a summary table showing the average annual and hourly salaries of respiratory therapists by state in 2025.
| State | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| California | $100,200 | $48.17 |
| New York | $91,800 | $44.13 |
| Texas | $79,000 | $37.98 |
| Florida | $75,500 | $36.30 |
| Illinois | $78,400 | $37.69 |
| Pennsylvania | $80,100 | $38.51 |
| Ohio | $76,200 | $36.63 |
| Georgia | $74,000 | $35.58 |
| Michigan | $77,800 | $37.40 |
| North Carolina | $73,500 | $35.34 |
| Arizona | $79,900 | $38.41 |
| Washington | $92,000 | $44.23 |
| Nevada | $88,500 | $42.55 |
| Massachusetts | $91,500 | $44.00 |
| Colorado | $85,700 | $41.20 |
| Oregon | $89,000 | $42.79 |
| New Jersey | $87,200 | $41.92 |
| Virginia | $79,300 | $38.13 |
| Maryland | $82,400 | $39.62 |
| Tennessee | $71,800 | $34.52 |
| Other States | $70,000–$78,000 | $33–$38 |
Factors Affecting Respiratory Therapist Salary in the United States
Several factors influence how much respiratory therapists earn in 2025:
1. Location
States with high demand for healthcare workers or a higher cost of living tend to offer higher salaries. California, New York, and Washington lead in pay.
2. Experience Level
New graduates typically start at entry-level salaries, while those with 5–10+ years of experience earn more. Specialized certifications can also boost income.
3. Education
Holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree in respiratory therapy may lead to higher-paying roles, especially in supervisory or specialized positions.
4. Work Setting
Hospitals usually pay the most, while home care agencies and outpatient clinics may offer slightly lower pay. Working in high-acuity areas like intensive care units (ICUs) can increase earnings.
5. Certifications
Additional certifications such as Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) or Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT) can help respiratory therapists command higher salaries.
Highest-Paying States for Respiratory Therapists in 2025
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California: $100,200 per year
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Washington: $92,000 per year
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New York: $91,800 per year
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Massachusetts: $91,500 per year
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Oregon: $89,000 per year
These states pay well but often come with higher living costs.
Lowest-Paying States for Respiratory Therapists in 2025
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West Virginia
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Mississippi
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Alabama
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Arkansas
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South Dakota
Average salaries in these states range from $65,000 to $72,000 per year, which is below the national average.
Respiratory Therapist Salary by Experience Level
Entry-Level (0–2 years):
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Annual Salary: $58,000–$64,000
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Hourly Wage: $25–$30
Mid-Level (3–7 years):
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Annual Salary: $70,000–$82,000
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Hourly Wage: $33–$39
Senior-Level (8+ years):
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Annual Salary: $85,000–$100,000+
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Hourly Wage: $40–$50
Salary Comparison: Registered Respiratory Therapist vs. Certified Respiratory Therapist
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Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRT): Average $82,000/year
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Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT): Average $72,000/year
The RRT credential typically commands a higher salary due to the increased education and skill level.
Do Respiratory Therapists Earn Overtime Pay?
Yes. Many hospitals and clinics offer overtime opportunities for respiratory therapists. Overtime pay is typically 1.5 times the hourly wage, meaning experienced RTs can earn $55–$70 per hour for overtime shifts.
Career Outlook for Respiratory Therapists in 2025
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong job growth for respiratory therapists. The aging population and increased awareness of chronic respiratory diseases like COPD and asthma will create more demand for RTs.
Job Growth Rate:
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Estimated growth: 12% from 2025–2030
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Much faster than the average for all occupations.
How to Increase Your Respiratory Therapist Salary
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Pursue higher education: A bachelor’s or master’s degree can lead to supervisory roles.
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Earn advanced certifications: Specializations like NPS or RPFT increase your value.
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Gain experience: Seniority typically leads to higher pay.
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Consider relocation: Move to a high-paying state if possible.
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Work overtime or on-call shifts: These can significantly boost your earnings.
Comparison: Respiratory Therapist Salary vs. Other Healthcare Jobs
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Registered Nurse (RN): $81,000/year
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Radiologic Technologist: $74,000/year
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Respiratory Therapist: $79,200/year
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Physical Therapist: $92,000/year
Respiratory therapists earn competitive salaries compared to other allied health professionals.
FAQs: Respiratory Therapist Salary in the United States (2025)
1. What is the average salary of a respiratory therapist in the USA in 2025?
The average salary is $79,200 per year, which equals $6,600 per month or $38.08 per hour.
2. Which state pays respiratory therapists the most?
California pays the highest, averaging $100,200 per year.
3. Do respiratory therapists get bonuses?
Some hospitals offer bonuses for extra shifts or sign-on bonuses for new hires.
4. Is respiratory therapy a good career choice?
Yes, the demand is growing, and salaries are competitive.
5. Can respiratory therapists make six figures?
Yes, with experience, overtime, or by working in high-paying states, many RTs earn over $100,000 annually.
6. What’s the difference in pay between CRT and RRT?
RRTs typically earn about $10,000 more per year than CRTs.
7. How does the cost of living affect salary?
States with higher living costs often pay higher salaries to balance expenses.
8. Are there remote jobs for respiratory therapists?
Some telehealth positions exist, but most RT roles require in-person care.
9. Do respiratory therapists get benefits?
Yes, benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
10. What is the job outlook for RTs?
The field is growing rapidly, with a 12% projected job growth rate by 2030.
Conclusion
The respiratory therapist salary in the United States in 2025 remains strong, averaging $79,200 annually. Salaries vary widely by state, experience level, and work setting. California, Washington, and New York lead the list of highest-paying states, while entry-level RTs can expect steady salary growth with experience and additional certifications.
Respiratory therapy is an excellent career for anyone interested in healthcare and helping patients with critical needs. With competitive salaries, strong job security, and opportunities for advancement, it remains one of the most rewarding allied health careers in the United States.
Next Step: If you are planning to join this profession, focus on getting the RRT credential and consider working in high-demand states or hospitals for the best pay.