APTA Unveils Key Reports on Physical Therapy Workforce and Income Insights

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has recently published two pivotal workforce reports that provide an in-depth analysis of the current state of the physical therapy profession. Based on responses from over 4,000 physical therapists and assistants collected in the APTA's 2025 Physical Therapy Profile Survey, these reports aim to guide career decision-making and workforce planning while informing advocacy efforts at both federal and state levels.

A Growing Sector Amidst Demand

According to APTA President Kyle Covington, PT, DPT, PhD, these reports illuminate a profession that is not only flourishing but is also increasingly essential in addressing healthcare needs. Despite their positive trajectory, the reports underscore the pressing challenges that require sustained attention. Covington notes, "By providing the physical therapy community with clear, actionable data, we can more effectively advocate for fair payment, strengthen and diversify the workforce, and ensure patients nationwide receive the timely care they deserve."

One report, titled "A Physical Therapy Profile: Demographics of the Profession," and the other, named "A Physical Therapy Profile: Incomes for the Profession," reveal vital trends regarding income, diversity, labor supply, and student enrollment within the field. The findings noted an annual workforce growth rate of 2% to 4% among physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs), underscoring an increasing interest in the profession, bolstered by a rise in enrollment in doctor of physical therapy programs. After several years of declining enrollees, PTA programs have bounced back since 2022, further indicating a resurgence in the field.

The demand for services rendered by physical therapists has consistently remained high, with nearly half of surveyed PTs stating that their capacity to meet local client needs is insufficient. This signifies a growing understanding of the significance of physical therapy in enhancing mobility, managing chronic conditions, and supporting healthy aging.

Income Insights Prompt Advocacy

Furthermore, the reports dive into income trends across demographics, analyzing factors like age, gender, and professional credentials. Although there has been a rise in incomes for both PTs and PTAs in recent years, these increases lag behind inflation rates since 2016. This persistent gap highlights the APTA's ongoing commitment to promoting fair and sustainable compensation.

Notably, PTs possessing post-professional accolades—a board certification, fellowship completion, or advanced graduate degrees—tend to earn higher salaries. However, disparities become noticeable by age 40, with a gender pay gap that grows to approximately $16,000 annually by age 65 for PTs. Such insights can help the APTA further refine its policy priorities, particularly concerning equity and fair compensation structures.

Geographical Disparities Affect Care Access

The availability of physical therapy services shows significant variability across the U.S. Reports indicate that PT shortages are primarily reported in the South and West regions. Meanwhile, PTA shortages are more prevalent in the Northeast and West. Patients currently endure an average wait time of 15 days to access physical therapy services, with some states showing protracted delays. This points to a critical need for strategic workforce planning to guarantee timely, high-quality access to care for patients.

Diversity Strides and Future Focus

On a positive note, APTA's data reveals commendable advancements in racial and ethnic diversity, especially among younger PT and PTA cohorts. This development is invaluable as the profession strives to reflect the communities it serves. Continued efforts in this realm are essential to foster equitable access to care throughout the country.

In conclusion, APTA's latest workforce and income reports provide a comprehensive overview of a rapidly evolving profession that is flourishing yet grappling with challenges. With rising enrollments in Doctor of Physical Therapy programs, shifting demographics, and regional labor shortages, there are numerous opportunities on the horizon. At the same time, income stagnation relative to inflation, coupled with disparities based on credentials, gender, and career stage, highlights the areas where advocacy must remain robust. The insights from these findings equip PTs, PTAs, and policymakers with the necessary information to push for fair payment practices, enhance workforce planning, support career development, and ensure that patients have timely access to high-quality care.

About APTA

The American Physical Therapy Association represents over 100,000 physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and physical therapy students nationwide. Discover more by visiting the APTA website.