Physical Therapist Jobs in Modesto, CA

Modesto, California$91,800 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Physical Therapist Jobs in Modesto

Looking for a Physical Therapist job in Modesto? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Physical Therapist in Modesto, CA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Modesto has a strong job market for Physical Therapists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Physical Therapist Salary in Modesto

Entry Level
$65,025
Median
$91,800
Senior Level
$123,165

Physical Therapist salaries in Modesto are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Modesto is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Patient AssessmentTreatment PlanningManual TherapyExercise PrescriptionDocumentation

Physical Therapist Job Market in Modesto

Modesto, CA is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Physical Therapist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Modesto offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Agriculture and Healthcare sectors create robust demand for Physical Therapist talent. The market for Physical Therapist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Physical Therapists in Modesto

Local hospital systemsRegional healthcare networksPrivate medical groups

Major employers hiring Physical Therapists in Modesto include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. With major hospital systems and research institutions, Modesto offers excellent opportunities for healthcare professionals at all career stages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Physical Therapists in Modesto

Living in Modesto as a Physical Therapist means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Physical Therapist salary, housing is quite affordable at 24% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

102
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Physical Therapist in Modesto

Modesto Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Physical Therapists in Modesto: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Physical Therapist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in California

California has relatively high state income taxes. A Physical Therapist earning $91,800 might pay approximately $7,344 in state income tax. However, California's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Physical Therapists

The job outlook for Physical Therapists in Modesto is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Modesto offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Patient Assessment, Treatment Planning, Manual Therapy, Exercise Prescription.

Relocating to Modesto

California has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Physical Therapist salary in Modesto, CA?

The average Physical Therapist salary in Modesto, CA is $91,800 per year. Entry-level Physical Therapists typically start around $65,025, while experienced professionals can earn $123,165 or more. The national average for Physical Therapist roles is $90,000.

How many Physical Therapist jobs are available in Modesto?

Modesto has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Physical Therapist professionals. Major employers hiring Physical Therapists include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. The Agriculture and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Modesto a good city for Physical Therapists?

Modesto is an solid choice for Physical Therapists. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's agriculture industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Physical Therapists in Modesto?

Top skills for Physical Therapists in Modesto include Patient Assessment, Treatment Planning, Manual Therapy, Exercise Prescription, Documentation. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Physical Therapists in Modesto?

Modesto's cost of living is near the national average (102% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Modesto is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Physical Therapists in Modesto?

Modesto Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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