Physical Therapist Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Physical Therapist positions in Chicago, IL. Ranges from $65,000 (entry-level) to $131,000 (senior). Median: $92,000.
Median (Mid)
$92,000
$44.23/hr
vs National
+0%
US: $92,000
COL Index
115
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$131,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $65,000 | $76,000 | $84,000 | $36.54/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $82,000 | $92,000 | $105,000 | $44.23/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $100,000 | $113,000 | $131,000 | $54.33/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level physical therapist earning $92,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $80,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 115).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Physical Therapist Salaries in Chicago
The median physical therapist salary in Chicago, IL is $92,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 0% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 115 (national average = 100), Chicago offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level physical therapists in Chicago can expect to earn between $65,000 and $84,000 (about $36.54/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $131,000 ($131K annually, or about $62.98/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions: Physical Therapist Salary in Chicago
What is the average Physical Therapist salary in Chicago?+
The average Physical Therapist salary in Chicago is $92,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $76,000 and senior-level pay reaches $113,000.
How much does an entry-level physical therapist make in Chicago?+
Entry-level physical therapists in Chicago earn between $65,000 and $84,000, with a median of $76,000 per year (about $36.54/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Physical Therapist in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Physical Therapist in Chicago earns roughly $36.54/hour at entry-level, $44.23/hour at mid-level, and $54.33/hour at senior-level.
Is the Physical Therapist salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Yes — Physical Therapist salaries in Chicago are about 0% higher than the US national median of $92,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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