Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Physical Therapists are healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 15.1% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 13,200
Direct AI exposure: 13% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 55% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $103K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $77K per year | $86K per year | $103K per year | $121K per year | $135K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $52K above the national average. | ||||
Physical Therapists typically work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes.
Physical Therapists play a critical role in the healthcare system by helping patients regain mobility and manage pain, often reducing the need for long-term use of prescription medications and their side effects. They work with patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, in a variety of therapeutic settings.
Their role is not just limited to rehabilitation but also includes promoting overall health and wellness through proactive management of conditions. Physical Therapists must be excellent communicators, both in listening to the concerns of their patients and in explaining treatment protocols.
The profession requires a strong foundation in science, including biology, anatomy, and physiology. It is a career that demands patience, compassion, and the ability to motivate patients, along with an in-depth understanding of physical movement and the human body.
To become a Physical Therapist, an individual usually needs to complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which typically takes about 3 years following an undergraduate degree, amounting to approximately 7 years of post-secondary education.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
