Physical therapist assistants and aides
🤍 Save CareerPhysical therapist assistants and aides play a vital role in the US economy, with 157K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $60,050, with projected growth of 16% through 2034 (Much faster than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
🔥 High Growth — 16% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Physical therapist assistants and aides
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Physical therapist assistants and aides
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
The core of this occupation involves physical, hands-on work such as massage, stretching, and assisting patients with mobility, which AI cannot perform. While AI can streamline peripheral tasks like scheduling, documentation, and exercise plan generation, the requirement for real-time human presence and physical dexterity creates a strong barrier to automation.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 16% projected growth and a median salary of $60,050, this career offers strong prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires see how to become one. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in physical therapist assistants and aides who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Physical therapist assistants and aides make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Physical therapist assistants and aides is $60,050 per year. Entry-level positions start around $36,030, while experienced professionals can earn up to $96,080 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Physical therapist assistants and aides?▼
Entry typically requires see how to become one. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is bachelor's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Physical therapist assistants and aides?▼
Most Physical therapist assistants and aides positions require bachelor's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Physical therapist assistants and aides?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Physical therapist assistants and aides. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Physical therapist assistants and aides do on a daily basis?▼
As a physical therapist assistants and aide, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Physical therapist assistants and aides a good career in 2026?▼
With 16% projected growth and a median salary of $60,050, this career offers strong prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 16%, which is declining. The median salary of $60,050 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Physical therapist assistants and aidess?▼
Physical therapist assistants and aides has an AI automation risk score of 30/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Physical therapist assistants and aides?▼
Anyone interested in physical therapist assistants and aides who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Physical therapist assistants and aides Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Physical therapist assistants and aides matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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