If you’re considering a career in respiratory therapy or are already working in the field, understanding the salary outlook for 2026 is crucial. This guide offers a comprehensive breakdown of respiratory therapist salaries, including average pay, income influencers, job market trends, and how to boost your earnings.
🩺 What is the Average Respiratory Therapist Salary in 2026?
As of 2026, the average salary for a respiratory therapist in the United States is approximately $74,000 per year, with most salaries ranging between $65,000 and $88,000 depending on location, experience, and credentials.
Hourly wage: $35–$42 per hour
Median annual salary: $74,000
Top 10% earners: Over $95,000
Bottom 10% earners: Around $60,000
📊 Salary Influencing Factors
Several factors affect how much a respiratory therapist earns in 2026:
1. Experience Level
Entry-Level (0–2 years): $60,000 – $68,000
Mid-Level (3–7 years): $70,000 – $78,000
Senior (8+ years): $80,000 – $95,000
Lead/Supervisory Roles: Can exceed $100,000 annually
2. Education & Certifications
Associate’s Degree (minimum requirement): Entry to mid-level pay
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: Higher earning potential
Certifications:
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT): Standard credential
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS): Adds value
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS): Increases versatility
3. Location
Salaries vary widely depending on the cost of living and healthcare demand:
Highest paying states: California, New York, Washington, and Massachusetts
Rural areas: May offer sign-on bonuses or relocation incentives
4. Healthcare Setting
Hospitals: Typically highest-paying
Home care or private practice: Moderate pay, more flexibility
Outpatient clinics and nursing homes: Often lower, but with reduced stress levels
📈 Job Market Trends in 2026
The demand for respiratory therapists continues to grow due to aging populations and long-term effects of respiratory diseases like COVID-19 and chronic conditions such as asthma and COPD.
Job growth: Expected to increase by 13% from 2024–2030
Increased demand in neonatal and geriatric respiratory care
More roles in telehealth and mobile respiratory care services
💼 Salary by Experience Level (Table Summary)
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $60K – $68K | New grads, usually with an associate’s degree |
| 3–5 Years | $70K – $78K | RRT certification strongly preferred |
| 6–10 Years | $80K – $90K | Often includes supervisory tasks |
| 10+ Years | $90K – $105K | May include management or teaching roles |
✅ Benefits of a Career in Respiratory Therapy
Job security in a growing healthcare sector
Flexible shifts and part-time options
Strong benefits packages, including retirement plans, health insurance, and paid leave
Opportunity to specialize in critical care, pediatrics, or sleep disorders
🎓 Education & Certifications That Increase Salary
While the minimum requirement is an associate’s degree, pursuing advanced education and credentials can increase both job opportunities and salary.
Recommended Certifications:
NBRC RRT Credential
CPFT or RPFT for pulmonary function testing
Sleep Disorders Specialty (SDS) Certification
💡 Tips to Maximize Your Respiratory Therapist Salary
Pursue continuing education and advanced certifications
Relocate to high-demand areas or states with better pay
Seek out travel respiratory therapist roles, which can pay $2,000+ per week
Advance into supervisory or educator roles within a hospital or academic setting
📌 Final Thoughts
A career as a respiratory therapist in 2026 offers not just a stable and rewarding income but also excellent job growth prospects. By gaining experience, pursuing further education, and strategically selecting work settings, respiratory therapists can maximize their salary and job satisfaction in the coming years.