Physical Therapist in Augusta-Richmond County, GA

As a career analyst who knows Augusta-Richmond County from the Riverwalk to the suburbs of Martinez, I can tell you that this isn't the place for flashy six-figure bonuses. It's about solid, reliable demand, a low cost of living, and a healthcare market that’s anchored by a military fortress and a major medical school. For physical therapists, this creates a unique ecosystem with steady job flow and clear pathways for advancement.

Let’s get straight to the numbers and the reality on the ground.

The Salary Picture: Where Augusta-Richmond County Stands

In Augusta-Richmond County, the financial picture for a Physical Therapist is strong, especially when you factor in the local cost of living. The median salary here is $98,722 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $47.46. This is slightly below the national average of $99,710—a gap that’s typical for the Southeast but is more than compensated for by the area's affordability. The metro area has 405 jobs for PTs currently, with a projected 10-year job growth of 14%, indicating stable, long-term demand.

Experience-Level Salary Breakdown

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Augusta)	Key Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$78,000 - $88,000	Often starts in outpatient clinics or acute care. New grads may need to be flexible on shift.
Mid-Career (3-8 yrs)	$92,000 - $105,000	This is where the median salary of $98,722 is most common. Specialization or manual therapy skills boost this.
Senior (9-15 yrs)	$105,000 - $120,000	Often involves leads, clinic management, or specialized roles (e.g., pelvic health, vestibular).
Expert (15+ yrs)	$115,000 - $135,000+	Typically in education (Augusta University), executive roles, or high-demand specialty practices.

Comparison to Other Georgia Cities

Augusta’s PT salary is competitive within Georgia, particularly against the backdrop of its cost of living.

• Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta: Median salary is higher (approx. $102,500), but the cost of living is drastically higher (30-40% above national average). The commute and congestion are significant lifestyle detractors.
• Savannah: Median salary is similar (~$98,500), but the job market is smaller and more seasonal due to tourism-driven healthcare needs. Augusta’s military presence (Fort Eisenhower and VA) provides year-round stability.
• Columbus: Median salary is lower (~$95,000), with fewer major hospital systems and less specialty care infrastructure.

Insider Tip: The $47.46 hourly rate is a solid benchmark. When negotiating a job offer, especially at a private practice, ensure you're accounting for productivity-based bonuses, which are common in outpatient. A good base with a fair bonus structure can push your total compensation well above the median.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The true test of any salary is what’s left after the essentials. Augusta-Richmond County’s affordability is its greatest asset for healthcare professionals.

Let’s break down a monthly budget for a PT earning the median $98,722 annual salary. (Note: This is a gross-to-net estimate; actual taxes vary.)

• Gross Monthly Income: $8,227
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$2,200
• Net Monthly Take-Home: ~$6,027

Monthly Budget Breakdown (PT earning $98,722)

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Apt)	$961	$1,200 for a nicer place in a prime area.
Utilities (Elec, Water, Internet)	$250	Varies by season; summers can be hot.
Groceries & Household	$400	Augusta has competitive grocery prices.
Car Payment/Insurance	$500	Crucial: Augusta is car-dependent.
Health Insurance (Copays, etc.)	$250	Varies by employer plan.
Student Loans (Avg.)	$300	A common debt for new PTs.
Dining & Entertainment	$400	Plenty of affordable local options.
Savings & Investments	$1,000+	This is the key. After essentials, you have over $1,000 left for savings.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Augusta-Richmond County is roughly $250,000. With a $98,722 salary and a modest down payment, a 30-year mortgage is very attainable. Many PTs I’ve met in Augusta live in suburbs like Martinez or Evans and own their homes within 3-5 years of starting their careers here.

Where the Jobs Are: Augusta-Richmond County's Major Employers

The job market here is dominated by a mix of large hospital systems, the VA, and a growing number of outpatient private practices. The presence of the U.S. Army’s Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center creates a steady stream of patients with orthopedic and neurological needs.

1. Augusta University Medical Center (AU Health): The region’s only Level 1 trauma center and academic medical center. They are a major hirer, especially for acute care, inpatient rehab, and ICU-PT roles. Hiring is often tied to the academic calendar.
2. Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center: One of the largest VA hospitals in the nation. They offer federal benefits, a pension, and consistent demand. They heavily hire for outpatient, home-based primary care, and polytrauma units.
3. Doctors Hospital of Augusta: A HCA Healthcare facility. Strong in orthopedics, sports medicine, and outpatient rehab. Known for a more corporate, metrics-driven culture.
4. St. Joseph’s Hospital of Augusta: Part of Trinity Health. Focuses on cardiac rehab, inpatient rehab, and outpatient services. Often has a strong community feel.
5. Piedmont Augusta: Formed by the merger of Piedmont and Doctors Hospital. This is a growing system with increasing need for PTs across inpatient and outpatient settings.
6. Private Practice Networks: Look for Therapy Works and Lighthouse Physical Therapy. These are local chains that frequently expand. They’re often the first to hire new grads and offer a fast-paced outpatient environment.
7. School Systems (Richmond & Columbia Counties): The school districts are major employers for pediatric PTs, especially given the military family transient population.

Hiring Trends: There's a high demand for PTs with pelvic health, vestibular rehabilitation, and lymphedema certification. The aging veteran population and the sports scene (from golfers to Fort Eisenhower soldiers) drive these specialties. Most job postings are on hospital career pages and local recruiting sites like the Georgia Physical Therapy Association (GPTA) job board.

Getting Licensed in GA

Practicing in Georgia requires a license from the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy. The process is straightforward and takes about 4-8 weeks.

1. Education & Exam: You must have graduated from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program and passed the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
2. Apply to the Board: Submit your application online, pay the $150 application fee, and have your official transcripts sent directly from your university.
3. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal background check is required (~$50).
4. Jurisprudence Exam: You must pass the Georgia Jurisprudence Exam, a 50-question open-book test on state laws. It's free but mandatory.
5. Total Cost & Timeline: Budget $200-$250 for fees. If you have all documents ready, you can be licensed in 4-6 weeks. If you’re moving from another state, ensure your license is in good standing; you’ll need to verify your original exam scores.

Insider Tip: The Georgia Board website can be slow to respond. Apply well before your job offer start date. Also, the GPTA is an invaluable resource for navigating the state-specific requirements and connects you to local mentorship opportunities.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Living in Augusta is about balancing commute, lifestyle, and cost. Most PTs live in the suburbs, as the downtown core is small and the hospitals are spread out.

• Downtown/Surry Hills (The City Center):

  • Vibe: Historic, walkable, with new apartments and old homes. Close to AU Health, St. Joseph’s, and the VA.
  • Commute: 5-15 minutes to most hospitals.
  • 1BR Rent: $1,100 - $1,400
  • Best For: Young professionals, those who want a walkable urban feel, easy access to the Riverwalk.

• Martinez (Suburban Staple):

  • Vibe: Quiet, family-friendly, with excellent schools. The "suburban dream" of Augusta.
  • Commute: 10-20 minutes to hospitals; traffic is minimal.
  • 1BR Rent: $950 - $1,200
  • Best For: PTs starting families, or those who want a quiet home base. Very popular with healthcare workers.

• Evans (Growing & Upscale):

  • Vibe: Newer developments, larger yards, top-rated Columbia County schools. More modern infrastructure.
  • Commute: 15-25 minutes to downtown; can be longer via Washington Road.
  • 1BR Rent: $1,050 - $1,350
  • Best For: Those seeking more space, newer homes, and don’t mind a slightly longer commute.

• North Augusta (Across the River):

  • Vibe: A separate city in South Carolina, but part of the metro. Quieter, with a small-town feel and access to the Savannah River.
  • Commute: 10-15 minutes to downtown Augusta.
  • 1BR Rent: $900 - $1,150
  • Best For: PTs who work at the VA or AU Health and want to avoid Georgia taxes. A hidden gem for affordability.

• Clearwater (Eastside):

  • Vibe: A mix of older homes and new subdivisions. Close to the Wilson College area and Fort Eisenhower.
  • Commute: 15-25 minutes to downtown.
  • 1BR Rent: $850 - $1,100
  • Best For: Those working at the VA or Fort Eisenhower clinic. Very affordable.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Augusta’s career growth for a PT is defined by specialty certification and leadership.

• Specialty Premiums: The highest salary jumps come from certifications. A PT with a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) or Diplomate in Orthopedic PT can command $10,000-$20,000 above the median. Pelvic Health (WCS) and Neurology (NCS) certifications are in high demand due to the veteran and aging populations.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Clinical Ladder: Most hospital systems have clinical ladders (e.g., PT I, II, III, Lead) with pay bumps for experience and education.
  2. Education: Augusta University’s College of Health Professions hires PTs as adjunct faculty or full-time clinical instructors. This is a prestigious path but often requires a PhD or DScPT.
  3. Practice Ownership: With lower overhead than major metros, some experienced PTs open their own boutique clinics (e.g., cash-based pelvic health or sports performance). This is a high-risk, high-reward path.
  4. Management: Clinic director or rehab manager roles in large systems (AU, Piedmont) offer a salary boost into the $110,000-$130,000 range but come with administrative burdens.

10-Year Outlook: The 14% job growth is robust. The demand will be driven by the aging population (both Boomer and veteran), an increase in outpatient orthopedic procedures, and the expansion of home health services. The rise of telehealth for some PT follow-ups may slightly reduce in-person volume but will also create new hybrid roles.

The Verdict: Is Augusta-Richmond County Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Strong Salary-to-Cost Ratio: The $98,722 median goes far with $961 average rent.	Car-Dependent City: Public transit is minimal; you will need a reliable car.
Stable, Diverse Job Market: VA, military, AU Health, and private practices offer variety.	Limited Cultural & Nightlife: Compared to Atlanta or Charleston, options are more subdued.
10-Year Growth (14%): Long-term job security is high.	Hot, Humid Summers: Can be intense for those from cooler climates.
Slower Pace of Life: Less traffic, less hustle than major metros.	Specialty Niche: Very specific sub-specialties may have fewer openings than in larger cities.
Great for Homeownership: Affordable real estate allows for building equity.	Transient Military Population: Can affect continuity of care and patient relationships.

Final Recommendation: Augusta-Richmond County is an outstanding choice for new grads, mid-career PTs seeking stability, and those who value work-life balance and affordability. It’s perfect if you’re looking to buy a home, build savings, and work in a demanding yet supportive healthcare environment without the chaos of a massive city. It’s less ideal for those seeking a bustling, walkable, 24/7 urban experience or for PTs in ultra-niche fields with only a handful of jobs nationally.

FAQs

1. Is the job market competitive for new Physical Therapists in Augusta?
Moderately competitive, but with a strong need. The major hospitals (AU, Piedmont) have structured new grad residency programs that are highly competitive. However, the network of outpatient private practices and home health agencies is always hiring and offers a faster entry point for new grads.

2. What’s the commute like in Augusta?
Very manageable by U.S. standards. Most commutes are between 10-25 minutes. The only significant traffic bottleneck is on Washington Road (SR 28) and I-20 during peak hours, but it pales in comparison to Atlanta. Living in the suburbs (Martinez, Evans) and working downtown is a common, easy commute.

3. Are there opportunities for travel PTs?
Yes, but they are often tied to the VA or large hospital systems filling temporary gaps. The VA, in particular, uses travel PTs to cover staff shortages. Pay is often higher than permanent roles, but you forgo benefits and stability. The 405 jobs in the metro can include travel positions.

4. How important is Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) for PT job opportunities?
Critical. The fort employs civilian PTs at its clinic and refers soldiers to local private practices and AU Health. The veteran population from the fort and the surrounding base drives a significant portion of orthopedic and neurological caseloads in the area.

5. What is the average caseload in an outpatient setting in Augusta?
In a typical private practice, expect a caseload of 12-16 patients per day, which is standard for the industry. Hospital-based outpatient may be slightly lower (10-14) due to more complex cases. Productivity requirements are a key question to ask in interviews.