Quick Comparison
Physical Therapist
$115,389
avg. annual salary
Veterinarian
pays more on average
Veterinarian
$117,697
avg. annual salary
When considering a career in healthcare, two popular paths are physical therapy and veterinary medicine. Both Physical Therapists (PTs) and Veterinarians play critical roles in improving the quality of life—PTs for humans and Veterinarians for animals. Understanding the financial aspects of these professions is essential for making an informed career decision. In this guide, we will compare the salaries, benefits, and career trajectories of Physical Therapists and Veterinarians in 2025. This comprehensive analysis will help you weigh the pros and cons and choose the path that aligns best with your passion and financial goals.
Salary by Experience Level
Physical Therapist Entry
$100,000
starting salary
Veterinarian Entry
$102,000
starting salary
Salary Difference
$2,308
avg. difference (2%)
Average Salary Overview
As of 2025, the average salary for Physical Therapists is approximately $87,000 per year, whereas Veterinarians earn an average of $100,000 annually. While both professions offer competitive salaries, the differences highlight the varying demands and education requirements associated with each career.
Salary by Experience Level
Physical Therapists typically start at around $65,000 for entry-level positions, progressing to about $100,000 with experience. Veterinarians also begin at approximately $75,000, with senior roles reaching up to $150,000 based on specialization and location.
Factors Influencing Salary
Several factors can influence salary for both professions, including geographic location, years of experience, work setting, and area of specialization. For Physical Therapists, working in hospitals or outpatient clinics may yield higher salaries than working in schools.
Similarly, Veterinarians specializing in surgery or emergency care often earn more than those in general practice.
Benefits and Job Security
Both careers offer substantial benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Also, Physical Therapists often enjoy flexible work hours, while Veterinarians may have more structured schedules but should expect to work weekends.
Job security in both fields is strong, with growing demand projected in the coming years.
Career Paths and Advancement Opportunities
Career advancement varies between the two fields. Physical Therapists may pursue specializations or become clinic supervisors, while Veterinarians can move into specialized areas such as wildlife or dental care.
Further education, like obtaining a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), is important for Veterinarians.