By: Natural Healers Staff
Updated: January 26, 2026
Physical Therapy Degree and Career Guide
Physical Therapist Salary by State
Physical Therapist Salaries in Hawaii
Hawaii is a unique and attractive location for physical therapists for several reasons—salaries is one of those reasons.
Hawaii’s diverse healthcare needs make the state a great place for physical therapists. Its demographics mean physical therapists work with a wide range of patients, including native Hawaiians, Asians, Pacific Islanders and others. This diversity can make the work more interesting and challenging.
Hawaii’s large tourism industry also means physical therapists may work with travelers who sustain injuries while on vacation, providing variety and job security in their caseload.
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There are 870 people employed as physical therapists in Hawaii says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This means for every 1,000 people, 1.4 are PTs—not bad for a state of 1.44 million (2022 statistics). The median wage per hour is $100,740 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 10.9%.
Hawaii’s climate is mild and consistent year-round, making it easier to maintain outdoor-based rehabilitation programs and activities, which can be beneficial for physical therapists. Other factors that work in the favor of PTs are:
Diverse patient populations:
Hawaii’s population is ethnically diverse, leading to a variety of health conditions and needs. Physical therapists can gain experience working with different demographics and cultural backgrounds, enhancing their skills and understanding.
Tourism and active lifestyles:
With a strong tourism industry and many outdoor activities, Hawaii attracts visitors and residents who enjoy hiking, surfing, diving and other sports. This active lifestyle can lead to a variety of sports-related injuries, providing physical therapists with ample opportunities to work with athletes and active individuals.
Strong healthcare system:
Hawaii has a robust healthcare system, with hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centers offering comprehensive services. This network allows physical therapists to work in various settings, from hospitals to private practices.
Scenic work environment:
The scenic beauty of Hawaii’s landscapes—from its beaches to its mountains—creates an inspiring work environment. This setting can be beneficial for both therapists and their patients, promoting a positive atmosphere conducive to healing and recovery.
Cultural Integration:
Hawaii has a unique blend of cultures, with a strong emphasis on community and traditional practices. Physical therapists in Hawaii can integrate cultural understanding into their practice, offering more holistic care and connecting with patients on a deeper level.
Opportunities for learning:
With Hawaii’s strong focus on health and wellness, physical therapists have opportunities to engage in continuous learning, specialized training and collaborative work with other healthcare professionals.
Quality of life:
Hawaii is known for its high quality of life, with a slower pace and emphasis on work-life balance. This environment can lead to better job satisfaction and overall well-being for physical therapists.
These factors help make Hawaii a sought after destination for physical therapists seeking career growth, competitive pay and a good work/life balance. Here are just five major employers of PTs in the state:
- Hawaii Pacific Health (HPH), Honolulu and other locations, HI:
- A major healthcare organization in Hawaii, HPH operates several hospitals and clinics, including Kapiolani Medical Center and Pali Momi Medical Center, providing a range of physical therapy services.
- Queen’s Health Care Systems, Multiple locations, HI:
- This health system manages multiple hospitals and clinics, including The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu, offering extensive physical therapy services across the state.
- Kaiser Permanente Hawaii, Honolulu, Wailuku and multiple locations, HI:
- Known for its integrated healthcare model, Kaiser Permanente employs physical therapists within its network of hospitals and clinics throughout Hawaii.
- Yoshimoto Physical Therapy, Honolulu, HI:
- Located in Honolulu, Yoshimoto Physical Therapy specializes in sports injuries and other orthopedic issues. The facility emphasizes personalized care, advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to provide high-quality PT services.
- Adventist Health Castle, Kailua, HI:
- Located in Kailua on Oahu, this hospital provides a variety of healthcare services, including physical therapy, through its rehabilitation department.
Salary statistics for Hawaii
Here are some salary statistics for the state of Hawaii as reported by the BLS and other agencies.
Median physical therapist salary in Hawaii
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for physical therapists in Hawaii is around $100,740.
Compare Hawaii’s median annual PT salary with the median national salary for physical therapists—which is is $101,020 a year—and you can see Hawaii is slightly above the national figure.
Physical Therapists
10%$81,210
25%$93,600
50%$100,740Median
75%$114,820
90%$121,760
Median Hourly Wage$48
Job growth10.9%
Total Employment990
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kahului-Wailuku, HI | $101,080 | $88,950 | $124,220 |
| Urban Honolulu, HI | $100,740 | $81,210 | $120,910 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Take a look at how salaries compare for fields that are similar to physical therapists:
Salary ranges for physical therapists in Hawaii
The salary range for PT professionals in Hawaii typically spans from $81,210 for the lowest 10% in the field to $121,760 for the highest 10% in the field per year.
These ranges account for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration the other factors such as experience, education and time in the position.
Pay by metro area within the state of Hawaii
Several metro areas have a median salary above the national median for PTs. For example, urban Honolulu’s median pay is $101,780, while the Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina metro area pays $104,540. Hawaii has no metro areas in the BLS’ top 10 areas for highest pay, or for highest employment of PTs in the country. Here are the top 10 spots for highest median salary by metro area according to the BLS:
And here are the top 10 highest employment metro areas for PTs in the U.S. as cited by the BLS:
Salary growth and job outlook
Hawaii’s job growth can vary depending on the sector, but the overall trend in recent years has been positive, with the state experiencing growth in employment across a variety of industries. This growth is driven by factors like tourism, healthcare, education and technology. However, job growth rates can fluctuate due to economic conditions, natural disasters, such as the recent fires, or other external factors.
In terms of healthcare, physical therapy is a growing field nationally due to the aging population and increased demand for rehabilitation services. Hawaii’s healthcare sector has seen expansion, with ongoing needs for healthcare professionals like physical therapists to serve both the resident and visiting populations. In addition, many retirees and elderly residents require physical therapy, contributing to the demand.
The BLS projects that PTs will have a faster than average job growth:
10.9%
Job growth for physical therapists through 2034 according to the BLS
Factors that may affect what physical therapists earn in Hawaii
Earnings for physical therapists in Hawaii can vary based on several factors. Below are some of the key elements that can affect the salary and compensation packages for PTs in the state:
- Experience and education:
- PTs with more years of experience generally earn higher salaries. Additional certifications or specializations can also lead to increased earning potential.
- Location:
- PT salaries can vary by location within Hawaii. Urban areas or regions with higher costs of living might offer higher salaries compared to rural or less populated areas.
- Employer type:
- PTs working in hospitals or large healthcare networks might have different salary scales compared to those in private practices, rehabilitation centers or outpatient clinics. Government or military-based facilities could also have distinct compensation structures.
- Role or specialty:
- PTs who specialize in certain areas, like orthopedics, sports rehabilitation or pediatric therapy, might earn more than generalists. Roles involving management or supervision may also offer higher salaries.
- Demand:
- In high-demand areas or during times of staffing shortages, salaries might be higher. Similarly, regions with a greater influx of tourists or retirees could create a stronger demand for PTs, potentially leading to better compensation.
- Other benefits:
- Compensation isn’t limited to salary alone. Benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, continuing education stipends and bonuses can also impact overall earnings. Jobs offering relocation assistance or housing allowances could also contribute to the total compensation package.
- Work schedule:
- PTs who work nights, weekends or on-call shifts might receive additional compensation, increasing their overall earnings.
- Unionization:
- In some Hawaii healthcare settings, unionized positions might offer different pay scales, step increases and additional benefits compared to non-union positions.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly in Hawaii?
To determine whether your pay is fair as a PT in Hawaii, you can evaluate several factors and resources. Here’s a guide to help you assess your salary’s fairness:
Compare with industry standards: Research average salaries for PTs in Hawaii. Look at data from reputable sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Payscale, Glassdoor or Indeed. These sources provide salary ranges based on location, experience, and other factors.
Consider your location and cost of living: Hawaii generally has a higher cost of living compared to the U.S. mainland. Use cost-of-living calculators to compare expenses in Hawaii with those in other areas to gauge whether your salary accommodates the higher costs.
What experience and education do you have: Consider your level of experience, education, certifications and specialties. If you have additional certifications or extensive experience, your pay should reflect that. Benchmark against similar PTs in Hawaii with comparable qualifications.
Job role and responsibilities: If your role involves supervisory duties, management or additional responsibilities, your pay should be higher than entry-level positions. Check if your salary aligns with your role and responsibilities.
Benefits and compensation package: Look beyond salary alone. Consider benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, bonuses, paid time off and continuing education stipends. A comprehensive benefits package can significantly enhance the value of your compensation.
Consult professional organizations: Organizations like the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) often conduct salary surveys that can provide industry-specific insights. Use these resources to understand the broader trends and salary ranges for PTs in Hawaii.
Network with peers: Talk to colleagues or other PTs in Hawaii to get an idea of the typical salary range. Networking with peers can help you understand what others in similar roles are earning.
Review employment contracts: If you have an employment contract, review it to ensure you’re receiving the agreed-upon compensation. Check for clauses related to salary increases, bonuses or other benefits.
Seek union representation: If you’re part of a union, review the collective bargaining agreement to understand salary scales and negotiated benefits.
Seek professional advice: If you’re unsure, consider seeking advice from a career counselor or human resources professional who can help you understand your pay in the context of the Hawaii job market.
By considering these factors and resources, you should be able to determine whether your pay is fair in Hawaii. If you find discrepancies or believe your compensation is lower than expected, consider discussing it with your employer or HR representative to explore opportunities for adjustments.
Education and training
To become a PT in Hawaii, you’ll need to follow a specific educational pathway, similar to what is required across the U.S. Here’s an outline of the education and related steps needed to become a licensed PT in Hawaii:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree:
- Start with an undergraduate degree, ideally in a related field such as biology, exercise science, kinesiology or health sciences. While a specific major isn’t required, taking courses in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics and biology can prepare you for advanced studies in physical therapy.
- Complete a DPT program:
- The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is the entry-level degree required to become a licensed PT in the U.S., including Hawaii. DPT programs typically last three years and involve coursework in subjects like biomechanics, kinesiology, orthopedics, neurology and pediatrics, along with extensive clinical training.
- Gain clinical experience:
- DPT programs include clinical rotations where you’ll gain hands-on experience in various physical therapy settings. This practical training is crucial for developing your skills and meeting licensing requirements.
- Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE):
- After completing your DPT program, you’ll need to pass the NPTE, administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). This exam tests your knowledge and skills in physical therapy and is required for licensure in Hawaii.
- Apply for Hawaii licensure:
- Once you’ve passed the NPTE, you must apply for licensure with the Hawaii Board of Physical Therapy. The application process involves submitting your exam scores, educational transcripts, and any other required documents. You may also need to undergo a background check.
- Complete continuing education requirements:
- To maintain your license, Hawaii requires continuing education (CE) credits. The number of credits and specific requirements may vary, but it’s generally around 30 credits every two years. You can earn CE credits through workshops, seminars or additional coursework.
Cost of living considerations
Hawaii ranks moderately among U.S. states for physical therapist jobs and salaries. While it offers a unique work environment with its natural beauty and active lifestyle, salaries for physical therapists in Hawaii tend to be slightly lower than the national average, partly due to the higher cost of living.
Job opportunities for physical therapists in Hawaii are typically driven by its aging population, the active lifestyle of its residents and the state’s emphasis on holistic healthcare. Although compensation might be lower, the benefits of working in a culturally diverse, scenic environment with a strong focus on health and wellness can make Hawaii a rewarding place for physical therapists.
Hawaii professional groups for PTs
Here are some professional associations that physical therapists may join or access in Hawaii. Groups can offer support, resources, networking, licensing and continuing education opportunities for physical therapists.
Hawaii Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association: This is the state chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association, providing resources, education and networking opportunities for physical therapists in Hawaii. They also work on advocacy and public awareness related to physical therapy.
Hawaii Board of Physical Therapy: The Hawaii State Board of Physical Therapy is the go-to place for licensure, filing complaints or researching complaints on a PT in the Islands. The board also holds meetings online. The website caters to the needs of physical therapists and physical therapy assistants as well.
This physical therapist salary guide for Hawaii aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.