By: Natural Healers Staff
Updated: January 26, 2026
Physical Therapy Degree and Career Guide
Physical Therapist Salary by State
Physical Therapist Salaries in Utah
Physical therapists in Utah, like other states, must adhere to state laws and regulations governing their profession. Here’s what they can earn once they enter the field.
Utah offers a promising environment for physical therapists, with competitive salaries, a growing healthcare industry and a unique outdoor culture. Physical therapists in Utah can find diverse opportunities across various settings, from hospitals and clinics to sports and specialized fields. The state’s lower cost of living and high quality of life make it an attractive place for PTs to practice and thrive in their careers.
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There are 2,310 people employed as physical therapists in Utah says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This translates to 1.3 people working in the profession per every 1,000 people living in the state. The median wage per hour is $47 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 10.9%.
Utah is home to professional sports teams like the Utah Jazz (NBA) and Real Salt Lake (MLS). These teams employ physical therapists to help players recover from injuries, improve performance, and maintain optimal physical condition. PTs in these roles often work closely with athletic trainers, team physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure athletes’ health and performance. In addition to sports physical therapy roles, Utah has unique jobs that require PT skills:
- Workplace ergonomics: Some PTs focus on industrial or workplace ergonomics, helping companies design safe work environments and prevent injuries.
- Pediatric therapy: PTs in pediatric settings work with children to address developmental issues or rehabilitation from injuries or surgeries.
Here are some top employers of physical therapists in Utah and how they use PT talent and skills:
- Intermountain Healthcare, Ogden and Logan, other locations, UT.
- A leading healthcare provider in Utah, Intermountain Healthcare employs physical therapists in hospitals, outpatient clinics and rehabilitation centers, offering diverse opportunities for PTs.
- University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT.
- This major healthcare institution employs PTs in various departments, including sports medicine, orthopedics and neurology. It also provides research and education opportunities.
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, Salt Lake City, UT.
- Specializing in pediatric care, Shriners employs PTs to work with children requiring specialized care, rehabilitation and therapy.
- Utah Orthopaedics, Ogden, UT.
- Focused on orthopedic care, this employer uses PTs to support patients recovering from surgeries, injuries and other orthopedic conditions.
Utah provides several compelling reasons why it’s an attractive state for physical therapists.
Salary statistics for Utah
Utah provides several compelling reasons why it’s an attractive state for physical therapists:
- Outdoor lifestyle: With its mountains, national parks such as Moab and recreational opportunities, Utah attracts people who value an active lifestyle. This outdoor culture drives the demand for physical therapy as individuals seek treatment for sports injuries, rehabilitation and overall fitness.
- Growing healthcare industry: Utah’s healthcare industry is expanding, with new hospitals, outpatient clinics and rehabilitation centers. This growth creates more job opportunities for PTs in a variety of settings.
- Quality of life: Utah consistently ranks high for quality of life, with a focus on work-life balance and family-friendly communities. This emphasis on well-being aligns with the physical therapy profession’s goals of promoting health and wellness.
- Education and innovation: Utah has reputable universities and healthcare institutions that foster innovation and research in physical therapy. This educational foundation contributes to a vibrant community of healthcare professionals.
How PTs are used in Utah
Physical therapists in Utah work in diverse settings, providing essential services in healthcare, sports and rehabilitation:
- Hospitals and outpatient clinics: PTs in hospitals help patients recover from surgeries, injuries, or illnesses. Outpatient clinics focus on rehabilitation, sports therapy and preventive care.
- Geriatric care: As the population ages, there is a growing need for physical therapy in nursing homes and assisted living facilities to support mobility and prevent falls.
- Specialized services: PTs in Utah may specialize in areas like orthopedics, pediatrics, neurology or women’s health, providing targeted treatment and care.
Median physical therapist salary in Utah
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for physical therapists in Utah is around $97,580, with more or less earnings depending on location, experience and specialization. Entry-level physical therapists may earn less, while experienced practitioners in high-demand areas can earn significantly more.
Compare Utah’s median annual PT salary with the median national salary for physical therapists—which is is $101,020 a year—and you can see Utah PTs earn around $4,000 less than the national median.
Physical Therapists
10%$53,470
25%$78,900
50%$97,580Median
75%$112,290
90%$132,970
Median Hourly Wage$47
Job growth10.9%
Total Employment2,330
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. George, UT | $103,510 | $49,650 | $156,890 |
| Salt Lake City-Murray, UT | $100,260 | $59,500 | $132,970 |
| Provo-Orem-Lehi, UT | $95,240 | $55,910 | $142,440 |
| Ogden, UT | $94,590 | $55,930 | $131,060 |
| Logan, UT-ID | $93,070 | $58,840 | $128,790 |
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 range for a physical therapist in Utah
The salary range for PT professionals in Utah typically spans from $53,470 for the lowest 10% in the field to $132,970 for the highest 10% in the field per year. This accounts 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 Utah
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub, say for example you work in business and you live in a city that has several high profile corporate businesses or healthcare industries, pay may be more competitive. For example, median pay in Salt Lake City and Logan is above the state’s median, at $95,970 and $101,960 respectively. Provo is also higher, at $97,730 and Ogden is lower, at $94,260. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as highest paying cities in the U.S.
As you can see, Utah does not have any metro areas that rank in the top 10 of highest paying cities.
Salary growth and job outlook
The job growth outlook for physical therapists in Utah is generally positive, reflecting a national trend toward increasing demand for healthcare professionals. Several factors contribute to the positive outlook for PT job growth in Utah, including an aging population, an active outdoor culture, the state’s emphasis on preventive care and opportunities for PTs to specialize.
With the BLS saying the demand for physical therapists is projected to grow significantly, Utah capitalizes on this trend due to the state’s expanding healthcare industry, growing population and active lifestyle. Overall, PTs in Utah can expect a positive job growth outlook with a wide range of opportunities in various settings and specializations.
10.9%
Job growth for physical therapists through 2034 according to the BLS
Factors that may affect physical therapist salaries in Utah
The salary for physical therapists in Utah is influenced by various factors, including experience, education, work setting, location, employer type, specialization, demand and compensation packages. Take a look:
- Experience and education:
- Generally, the more experience you have as a physical therapist, the higher your salary. Experienced PTs with a proven track record of success in clinical practice are often in higher demand and can command better compensation. Earning a DPT may also increase your salary.
- Location within Utah:
- Physical therapists in larger cities like Salt Lake City or Provo might earn higher salaries due to a higher cost of living and increased demand for healthcare services. In rural areas, salaries could be lower, but other factors like lifestyle and lower living costs might balance this.
- Employer benefits:
- Some employers offer comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans and continuing education support, which can impact overall compensation. Employers may also offer performance-based bonuses or incentives for additional certifications, which can increase total compensation.
- Specializing:
- PTs with additional specializations, such as orthopedics, geriatrics, pediatrics or neurology, may earn higher salaries due to their specialized skills and knowledge. PTs with certifications such as manual therapy, dry needling or sports rehabilitation, may also command higher salaries.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly in Utah?
To determine if you’re being paid fairly as a physical therapist in Utah, consider industry salary averages, location, work setting, experience, education, employer compensation packages, networking opportunities and job market trends.
By comparing your salary and benefits with those of other PTs in similar situations, you can assess whether you’re being compensated fairly and identify areas for negotiation or improvement. Here are some suggestions to help you assess your pay fairness:
- Look up salary averages for physical therapists in Utah from reputable sources. You can use websites like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which provides median salary data for various professions by state. Additionally, platforms like Glassdoor, Payscale or Indeed offer salary ranges based on job title, location and experience.
- Location and work setting are significant factors in determining salary. Physical therapists working in urban areas or large healthcare facilities may earn more than those in rural areas or smaller practices. Also take into consideration whether you work in a hospital, outpatient clinic, private practice or other settings, as this can impact salary levels.
- Experience and education also play a role in salary. More experienced PTs with advanced degrees or specializations typically earn higher salaries.
- Beyond base salary, consider employer benefits and compensation packages. These can include health insurance, retirement plans, bonuses, paid time off and continuing education support.
- Networking with other physical therapists in Utah can provide valuable insights into typical salaries and compensation packages.
Utah protects workers against pay discrimination, and has laws in place to enforce worker rights. The Utah Antidiscrimination Act prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age (40 or over), national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or pregnancy-related conditions. Contact the Utah Labor Commission if you have pay parity questions or concerns.
Education and training
To become a physical therapist in Utah, you need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, successful completion of the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and state licensure through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
Programs like those at the University of Utah and Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions offer excellent pathways for aspiring PTs. With rigorous coursework and comprehensive clinical training, these programs help ensure that students are well-prepared for careers as licensed physical therapists in Utah.
Cost of living considerations
Utah’s cost of living varies across regions, and understanding these differences is essential when considering employment opportunities and overall quality of life. While Utah’s overall cost of living is generally lower than many states, some regions are more expensive due to factors like housing costs, transportation and other living expenses.
1. Housing costs
Housing costs can differ significantly depending on the region in Utah. Consider the following:
- Salt Lake City and surrounding areas: Salt Lake City, the state’s largest city, tends to have higher housing costs due to its urban setting and proximity to major employers. This trend extends to nearby areas like Sandy and West Jordan.
- Provo and Orem: Known for its universities and growing tech industry, the Provo-Orem area has seen rising housing costs, though they are generally lower than Salt Lake City.
- Ogden: A smaller city with a more industrial background, Ogden typically has lower housing costs compared to Salt Lake City or Provo-Orem.
- Rural areas: Housing costs in rural areas are generally lower, but access to amenities and employment opportunities might be more limited.
2. Transportation and commuting
Transportation costs are another factor to consider:
- Urban areas: In cities like Salt Lake City, public transportation is more accessible, which can reduce commuting costs. However, traffic congestion may still impact commuting times.
- Rural areas: In rural regions, owning a car is often necessary, leading to higher transportation costs. Longer commutes and limited public transportation options can add to these expenses.
3. Utilities and services
Utilities and services, including electricity, water, internet and waste management, are part of the cost of living. These costs can vary depending on the region and type of dwelling:
- Urban areas: Utilities in urban areas may be slightly higher due to the higher demand for services.
- Rural areas: In rural regions, utilities might be lower, but service reliability could be an issue in some cases.
4. Healthcare costs
Healthcare costs are influenced by your health insurance plan and access to medical facilities:
- Urban areas: Urban regions have more healthcare facilities, providing greater access to medical services. However, the cost of health insurance might be higher.
- Rural areas: Rural areas may have fewer healthcare facilities, but health insurance costs could be lower due to fewer healthcare needs.
5. Taxes and state regulations
Utah has a relatively low state income tax rate and does not have excessive regulatory burdens:
- State income tax: Utah has a flat state income tax rate, which is relatively low compared to other states.
- Property taxes: Property taxes in Utah are generally moderate, but they can vary by county and region.
6. Education and childcare
For families with children, education and childcare costs are significant considerations:
- Public schools: Utah has a robust public education system, with schools in both urban and rural areas.
- Childcare costs: Childcare costs can be higher in urban areas due to greater demand and limited supply.
Utah-based professional associations for PTs
These associations offer a mix of continuing education, networking and collaborative opportunities for physical therapists in Utah. Although some focus on specific therapy professions, they often interact with physical therapy through multidisciplinary approaches to patient care.
Utah Physical Therapy Association: The Utah Physical Therapy Association is the state chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). It serves physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students in Utah. APTA Utah provides continuing education, networking events, legislative advocacy, and resources to support the professional development of its members.
Utah Athletic Trainers’ Association (UATA): The Utah Athletic Trainers’ Association (UATA) supports athletic trainers in the state, many of whom work closely with physical therapists in sports rehabilitation settings. Physical therapists specializing in sports therapy may find networking opportunities through UATA.
Utah Occupational Therapy Association (UOTA): While primarily focused on occupational therapy, the Utah Occupational Therapy Association (UOTA) collaborates with other therapy professions, including physical therapy, on shared interests in rehabilitation and patient care. PTs involved in multidisciplinary rehabilitation might find UOTA events and resources valuable.
Utah Chiropractic Physicians Association (UCPA): The Utah Chiropractic Physicians Association (UCPA) is another association where physical therapists might find collaborative opportunities. PTs working in multidisciplinary settings with chiropractors can connect with other professionals interested in spinal and musculoskeletal health.
This physical therapist salary guide for Utah 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.