Physical Therapist Salary and Job Market Outlook in Virginia

What is the average salary for Physical Therapists (PTs) in Virginia?

The average annual salary for Physical Therapists (PTs) in Virginia is $86,890.

Are there variations in PT salaries based on geographic regions in Virginia?

Yes, PT salaries do vary based on geographic regions in Virginia. According to Salary.com, the average physical therapist salary in Virginia ranges from $80,225 to $87,556 depending on the region. In Northern Virginia, physical therapists can expect to make the highest salaries, while those located in Southwest Virginia tend to make the lowest salaries.

What factors, such as experience or specialization, can impact PT salary in Virginia?

1. Level of Experience: Generally, the longer you have been a physical therapist, the higher your salary will be.

2. Specialization: Physical therapists who specialize in certain areas, such as orthopedics, geriatrics, and pediatrics, tend to command higher salaries than those who do not.

3. Location: PTs in certain states or cities may command higher salaries due to regional differences in cost of living and demand for their services. For example, PTs in larger cities such as Washington, DC or Virginia Beach may typically make more than those in small or rural towns.

4. Employer Type: Salaries for physical therapists may vary depending on the type of employer, from private practices to hospitals to government organizations. Generally, PTs employed by larger organizations like hospitals may earn higher salaries than those employed by smaller operations.

5. Education: PTs with a higher education level (masters or doctorate) may earn more than those with a basic four-year degree. Additionally, PTs who have completed specialized certifications may be able to command higher salaries than those without them.

What benefits, such as healthcare, retirement, or tuition assistance, are typically offered to PTs in Virginia?

Healthcare benefits vary by employer, but most PTs in Virginia have access to health insurance coverage, dental coverage, vision coverage, and life insurance. Retirement benefits for PTs in Virginia typically include access to 401(k) plans or other retirement options such as pension plans. Tuition assistance is also typically offered to PTs in Virginia, either through educational reimbursement programs or tuition discounts for classes taken at schools in the area.

Are there opportunities for salary growth and advancement for PTs in Virginia?

Yes, there are many opportunities for salary growth and advancement for physical therapists in Virginia.PTs in Virginia are able to progress through various clinical and managerial roles, as well as apply for promotions within their current facility. There are also several professional organizations that offer continuing education courses and workshops which can help PTs to gain additional knowledge, skills, and experience, increasing their chances for advancement.

How do PT salaries compare to the national average for physical therapists in Virginia?

The average salary for physical therapists in Virginia is $89,827, which is significantly higher than the national average of $87,930. Virginia physical therapists are among the highest paid in the nation, with salaries that exceed the national average by about 1.7%.

Is there a demand for PTs, and how does the job market outlook look for PTs in Virginia?

Yes, there is a demand for Physical Therapists in Virginia. According to the Virginia Employment Commission, the job market outlook for PTs in Virginia is expected to be strong over the next ten years, with an average growth rate of 11%. Additionally, many of the larger metropolitan areas in Virginia are projected to experience a higher demand for PTs, particularly in Northern Virginia and Richmond.

Are there specific healthcare sectors, such as hospitals, private practices, or rehabilitation centers, that have a higher demand for PTs in Virginia?

The demand for physical therapists varies depending on the region and the type of healthcare facility. In Virginia, there is generally a higher demand for PTs in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home health care. Rehabilitation centers and private practices also tend to have higher demand due to the need for specialized services. In addition, rural areas tend to have more openings for PTs than urban areas.

Is there a demand for bilingual or multilingual PTs in healthcare settings that serve diverse communities in Virginia?

Yes, there is a demand for bilingual or multilingual physical therapists in healthcare settings that serve diverse communities in Virginia. Virginia has a large and growing population of immigrants and non-English speaking individuals, and many healthcare systems have seen an increased need for linguistically competent care providers. The Virginia Board of Physical Therapy requires physical therapists who treat patients from diverse backgrounds to demonstrate cultural competence. Additionally, many organizations have developed programs that help to increase access to care for these populations.

What is the employment growth rate for PTs, and are there expected shortages in the healthcare workforce in Virginia?

The employment growth rate for physical therapists (PTs) in Virginia is projected to be 26.5% between 2019 and 2029. This is much faster than the average for all occupations.

In addition, there is an expected shortage of healthcare workers in Virginia. The state is projected to experience a shortage of 16,210 healthcare workers in 2025 due to population growth and an aging population.

What are the employment benefits and opportunities for career advancement’s healthcare facilities for PTs in Virginia?

Employment benefits for physical therapists in Virginia may vary depending on the healthcare facility and employer. However, some of the most common benefits physical therapists in Virginia may receive include health insurance, paid vacation time, retirement plans, and continuing education allowances.

When it comes to career advancement opportunities for physical therapists in Virginia, those working in larger healthcare facilities may have the opportunity to go through management training programs or pursue further education to earn specialty certifications. Additionally, those working in smaller healthcare facilities may be able to advance their careers by taking on additional responsibilities or accepting more challenging cases.

Do PTs with specialized certifications or advanced practice roles have increased job opportunities and earning potential in Virginia?

Yes, PTs with specialized certifications or advanced practice roles typically have increased job opportunities and earning potential in Virginia. With the rapid expansion of physical therapy services in Virginia, employers are increasingly seeking qualified physical therapists with advanced certifications and/or specialties. These PTs can command higher salaries and have more job opportunities than those without the specialized training.

Are there opportunities for immigrants, including those with language skills, to find employment in healthcare facilities in Virginia?

Yes, there are opportunities for immigrants with language skills to find employment in healthcare facilities in Virginia. Healthcare facilities in Virginia are often in need of bilingual employees to assist and communicate with patients of various backgrounds, and some facilities offer targeted programs to recruit immigrant healthcare workers. Additionally, many healthcare facilities in Virginia have embraced a more welcoming and diverse culture, meaning employers are likely to consider a wider range of job applicants.

What are the typical work schedules for PTs, and do they include options for part-time or flexible hours in Virginia?

Most physical therapists in Virginia typically work full-time hours, usually between 40 to 45 hours per week. However, there are also options for part-time or flexible hours, depending on the workplace. Some PTs may work night, weekend, or even holiday shifts, depending on the demands of their job. There are also opportunities for teletherapy – providing physical therapy services via telephone or internet – that can allow for greater flexibility in work hours.

Are there resources, such as job fairs or online job portals, that can help immigrants find PT job opportunities in Virginia?



Yes, there are several resources available to help immigrants find PT job opportunities in Virginia. Some of these include:

1. Virginia One-Stop Career Centers: This website is a great resource for finding job fairs and other events that help immigrants and other job seekers find PT jobs in Virginia.

2. Virginia Employment Commission: This website offers online job postings, career counseling, and other services to help immigrants find PT job opportunities in Virginia.

3. Indeed: This popular online job search engine has a variety of job postings for immigrants looking for PT jobs in Virginia.

4. CareerBuilder: This online job portal has many listings for PT jobs in Virginia that are suitable for immigrants.

5. LinkedIn: LinkedIn allows users to search for PT jobs in Virginia by location, industry, and more. This can be a great tool for immigrants looking for PT jobs in the area.

What are the options for continuing education and professional development for PTs to enhance their careers in Virginia?

1. Courses from VA PT universities and colleges: Virginia Commonwealth University, Old Dominion University, George Mason University, Radford University, University of Virginia, and Virginia Tech all offer continuing education opportunities for physical therapists.

2. State Boards of Physical Therapy: The Virginia Board of Physical Therapy offers a variety of continuing education courses approved for PTs in Virginia.

3. Professional Organizations: The Virginia Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (VAPTA) offers educational programs and resources for members.

4. Online Learning: Online courses are available from a variety of organizations and can provide PTs with up-to-date information and skills to enhance their careers.

5. Conferences and Workshops: Conferences and workshops hosted by VAPTA as well as other professional organizations can provide PTs with networking opportunities and education on the latest trends in the field.

6. Mentorship Programs: Mentorship programs offer PTs the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in their field.

Are there specific job search strategies and resources for immigrants, including those with unique language or cultural considerations, seeking PT positions in Virginia?

Yes, there are specific job search strategies and resources for immigrants seeking part-time positions in Virginia. Here are some tips and resources you can use to help your job search:

1. Connect to Local Resources: Look into local job centers and organizations that provide services and assistance specifically for immigrants. These organizations may have job postings, connections to employers, and language and cultural support to help you navigate the job search process.

2. Networking: Get connected to the local community by attending events and connecting with other immigrants in the area. This can help you build a professional network that can help you find job opportunities.

3. Utilize Online Resources: Take advantage of online job search resources such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn, which allow you to search specifically for jobs in the Virginia area.

4. Look for Language Support: If your native language is not English, look for organizations that provide language support and translation services to help you navigate the job search process.

5. Consider Social Media: Use social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook to connect with potential employers and promote your skillset.

How can immigrants with PT qualifications ensure that their credentials align with the state’s licensing and employment requirements in Virginia?

Immigrants with PT qualifications can start by researching the licensing requirements for physical therapists in Virginia. This information can be found on the Virginia Department of Health Professions website. Additionally, it’s important to research the educational and other requirements for physical therapist licensure in Virginia. Once a person has identified the requirements, they should contact the Board of Physical Therapy at the Virginia Department of Health Professions to obtain any additional information they might need. Additionally, they should inquire about any examinations, or other requirements needed to meet Virginia’s licensing and employment requirements. Finally, it is important for immigrants to research potential employers and contact them to inquire about their qualifications and experience requirements for physical therapy positions.

Do PTs have opportunities for overtime or shift differentials that can increase their earnings in Virginia?

The answer to this question depends on the employer and the terms of the physical therapist’s employment contract. It is possible for some physical therapists to receive overtime or shift differentials in Virginia, but it is not a guarantee.

What are the potential legal implications or challenges immigrants may face when pursuing PT careers, especially in the context of immigration status, in Virginia?

Immigrants may face a range of legal challenges when pursuing PT careers in Virginia, particularly with respect to their immigration status. First, immigrants must ensure that they are legally authorized to work in the United States. This can be done by obtaining the appropriate work visa or green card, if applicable. Additionally, they must ensure that their visa or green card does not impose any restrictions on the type of work they are allowed to engage in.

Another legal challenge immigrants may face is obtaining the necessary licensure to practice physical therapy in Virginia. Generally, states require physical therapists to obtain a state license to practice in their jurisdiction. This may be more difficult for immigrants due to the fact that some state licensure boards require applicants to provide documents such as proof of US citizenship or legal residency status.

Finally, immigrants should be aware of any additional regulations and restrictions that may be imposed on them by their employers, such as those related to health insurance eligibility and benefits. It is important for immigrants to understand their rights and responsibilities as a worker and to ensure that they are adhering to all applicable laws and regulations.