Physical Therapist in Franklin, TN

The Salary Picture: Where Franklin Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Franklin’s reputation as a wealthy, growing suburb of Nashville has a direct impact on what you can earn as a Physical Therapist (PT). The healthcare market here is robust, serving a population of affluent residents and retirees who are often willing to invest heavily in their physical health. This drives salaries slightly above the national average, even as the cost of living remains manageable.

Let’s break down the numbers. The median salary for a Physical Therapist in Franklin is $98,932 per year, with an hourly rate of $97.56. This is virtually on par with the national average of $99,710, but the local context—specifically our job market and cost of living—makes it go further. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job postings, there are approximately 177 open jobs for PTs in the metro area at any given time, indicating strong demand.

Here’s how experience typically translates into salary in the Franklin market:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities in Franklin
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$80,000 - $90,000	Staff PT in outpatient clinics or acute care at Williamson Medical Center; focus on foundational skills and building a caseload.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$95,000 - $105,000	Senior PT in orthopedics, sports rehab, or home health; potential for lead therapist roles in private practices.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$105,000 - $120,000	Clinic director, specialist in pelvic health or vestibular rehab, or senior role in a hospital system like Vanderbilt Health.
Expert (15+ years)	$120,000+	Practice owner, clinical instructor for PT programs, or consultant for high-end wellness and sports performance centers.

How Franklin Compares to Other Tennessee Cities:
Franklin’s median salary of $98,932 sits comfortably between the state’s two largest metros. Nashville, being a major healthcare hub with prestigious institutions like Vanderbilt, can offer slightly higher salaries for specialized roles, often pushing into the $105,000+ range for mid-to-senior levels. However, the competition is fiercer, and the commute from Franklin can be grueling. On the other hand, Knoxville and Chattanooga generally have lower median salaries, often in the $90,000 - $95,000 range. Franklin’s advantage is its position as a high-demand, high-earning suburb with a lower stress environment than downtown Nashville, yet robust career opportunities.

Insider Tip: The 10-year job growth for PTs in the Franklin metro area is projected at 14%, which is above the national average for the profession. This growth is fueled by the aging population of Williamson County and the expansion of outpatient orthopedic and sports medicine clinics catering to active adults and athletes in the area.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your budget. A median salary of $98,932 sounds great, but what’s your monthly take-home? After federal income tax, FICA (7.65%), and Tennessee’s state tax (which is 0% on wages), a single filer taking the standard deduction will see roughly $69,000 - $72,000 in net annual income, depending on pre-tax deductions like health insurance. That’s about $5,750 - $6,000 per month.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a Physical Therapist living in Franklin:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes for a Franklin Resident
Rent (1BR Apt)	$1,442	City average. Could be lower in Cool Springs, higher near downtown.
Utilities	$150 - $200	Electricity, water, gas, internet.
Groceries	$400 - $500	Slightly above national average; local grocers like Publix and Kroger are standard.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400 - $600	Essential in Franklin. Public transit is limited.
Health Insurance	$200 - $350	Varies by employer. Most major employers offer decent plans.
Misc. & Entertainment	$500 - $700	Dining out, streaming, gym membership, occasional events.
Total Estimated Expenses	$3,092 - $3,792
Remaining for Savings/Debt	$2,208 - $2,908

Can you afford to buy a home? This is the big question, and the answer is: it's challenging but possible with planning. The median home price in Franklin is well above $700,000. To comfortably afford a home at that price with a 20% down payment, a household income of $180,000+ is typically recommended. For a single PT earning the median $98,932, buying a home solo in Franklin would require a substantial down payment, likely over $150,000, and would stretch your budget thin. Most PTs in Franklin either rent, buy in more affordable neighboring towns like Spring Hill or Nolensville, or buy as a dual-income household.

Insider Tip: Many PTs who buy in Franklin do so after 5-7 years in the area, often after receiving a promotion to a senior role (pushing their salary toward $110,000+) or securing a partner's income. The Franklin real estate market moves fast; it's wise to get pre-approved early if homeownership is a goal.

Where the Jobs Are: Franklin's Major Employers

Franklin is not a one-employer town. The job market for PTs is diversified across hospital systems, private practices, and specialty clinics. Here are the major players:

1. Williamson Medical Center (WMC): Located in Franklin, this is the primary acute care and outpatient hub for the county. They have inpatient rehab, outpatient orthopedics, and sports rehab. Hiring trends show a steady need for PTs for both inpatient and outpatient roles, with recent expansion in their orthopedic and sports medicine lines. Insider Tip: WMC is known for a strong team culture and opportunities for new grads to gain diverse experience.

2. Vanderbilt Health (Multiple Locations): While the main campus is in Nashville, Vanderbilt has a significant presence in Franklin with several outpatient clinics (e.g., Vanderbilt Orthopaedics at Cool Springs). These positions are highly coveted due to the Vanderbilt brand, competitive benefits, and access to cutting-edge research. They often seek PTs with specialized interests (e.g., orthopedics, pelvic health, oncology rehab).

3. St. Thomas Health (Ascension): Another major system with outpatient clinics in Cool Springs and Nolensville. They focus heavily on orthopedics and sports medicine, serving a patient base of active professionals and athletes. They have a reputation for investing in continuing education for their staff.

4. Elite Sports Medicine & Orthopedics: A prominent, locally-owned private practice with multiple locations in the Nashville/Franklin area. They are known for sports-focused rehab and have deep ties with local high schools, colleges, and amateur sports leagues. Their hiring is often for PTs with a passion for athletic performance and injury prevention.

5. Rehab Associates of Franklin: A well-established outpatient orthopedic practice that serves the Franklin community. They emphasize manual therapy and have a loyal patient base. This is a great option for PTs who want to work in a community-focused clinic without the corporate feel of a large hospital system.

6. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Amedisys, LHC Group): There is consistent demand for PTs in home health, serving the aging population in Franklin's residential neighborhoods. This role offers more autonomy and a different pace. The pay can be very competitive, often on a per-visit basis, but requires strong time management and documentation skills.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward specialization. Clinics are increasingly looking for PTs with certifications in dry needling, pelvic health, vestibular rehab, or strength and conditioning. There is also a growing demand for PTs in wellness and performance settings, catering to the active Franklin lifestyle.

Getting Licensed in TN

To practice as a Physical Therapist in Tennessee, you must be licensed by the Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

Requirements:

1. Education: Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PT program (Doctor of Physical Therapy, DPT).
2. Examination: Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTs, administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
3. Jurisprudence Exam: Pass the Tennessee Jurisprudence Exam, which covers state laws and rules.
4. Background Check: Submit to a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

Costs (Approximate):

• NPTE Exam Fee: $485
• TN Jurisprudence Exam Fee: $50
• Application Fee (for licensure by examination): $175
• Fingerprinting/Background Check: $50 - $75
• Total Estimated Cost: ~$760 - $810 (not including travel to testing centers or study materials).

Timeline:

• Preparation (1-3 months): Study for the NPTE.
• Application (1-2 months): Submit your application to the TN Board before your first attempt at the NPTE or after passing. The board will grant you an Authorization to Test (ATT).
• Testing: Schedule and pass the NPTE and TN Jurisprudence Exam.
• Issuance (2-4 weeks): Once you pass all exams and meet all requirements, the board will issue your license.

Insider Tip: Tennessee is a compact state! If you hold a license in another compact state, you can apply for a compact privilege to practice in Tennessee without going through the full licensure process. This is a huge advantage for PTs moving from states like Georgia, Kentucky, or North Carolina. Always check the most current compact status on the FSBPT website.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Choosing where to live in Franklin depends on your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

1. Downtown Franklin: The historic, walkable heart of the city. Charming, bustling with shops and restaurants, but very expensive. A 1BR apartment here can easily run $1,700+. Commute to most clinics is under 10 minutes. Best for those who want a vibrant, community-focused lifestyle and don't mind the higher rent.
2. Cool Springs: The commercial and corporate hub. Home to many of the larger clinics (Vanderbilt, St. Thomas) and shopping centers. Rent is moderate ($1,450 - $1,600 for a 1BR). Commutes are short, and access to I-65 is excellent. Ideal for professionals who prioritize convenience and proximity to work.
3. Westhaven: A planned community with a master-planned feel, great schools, and a family-friendly atmosphere. It's more residential and suburban. Rent is comparable to Cool Springs ($1,500 - $1,700). The commute to clinics is a bit longer (15-20 mins) but still easy. Perfect for PTs with families or those seeking a quieter, community-oriented setting.
4. Berry Farms: A newer, rapidly developing area with modern apartments and townhomes. It's located in the southern part of Franklin, near the border with Spring Hill. Rent is slightly lower ($1,350 - $1,550). The commute to downtown clinics is 15-25 minutes. Great for younger PTs or couples looking for modern amenities and good value.
5. Nolensville (Bordering Town): While not Franklin proper, Nolensville is a popular, fast-growing town just south of Franklin. It offers significantly lower rent ($1,250 - $1,450 for a 1BR) and a small-town feel. The commute to Franklin clinics is 20-30 minutes. This is a smart choice for PTs prioritizing affordability and a shorter commute to Nashville if they work there.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A PT career in Franklin is not a dead-end job; it's a launching pad. The key to long-term growth is specialization.

• Specialty Premiums: While the median salary is $98,932, becoming a specialist can push you into the $110,000 - $130,000 range.

  • Pelvic Health: Highly in-demand, especially in a community with many postpartum women and older adults. Certification can lead to a 10-15% pay bump.
  • Orthopedic Manual Therapy (OCS): This is the gold standard for outpatient orthopedics and is highly valued by employers like Vanderbilt and Elite Sports.
  • Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS): Perfect for the sports-heavy Franklin market, working with local athletes and teams.
  • Vestibular Rehab: Growing need due to an aging population and post-concussion protocols in local high school sports.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Clinical Ladder: Move from Staff PT to Senior PT to Lead PT or Clinic Director.
  2. Entrepreneurial: Open a niche private practice (e.g., pelvic health, running gait analysis, pediatric therapy). Franklin's affluent demographic supports niche businesses.
  3. Education: Become a clinical instructor or adjunct faculty for the PT program at Belmont University in Nashville or Tennessee State University.
  4. Home Health/Start-Up: Transition to home health or a concierge PT service for high-net-worth clients.

10-Year Outlook: With a 14% job growth projection, the market will remain strong. The biggest shifts will be toward value-based care, telehealth integration, and wellness-focused services. PTs who adapt to these trends, obtain advanced certifications, and build a strong local network will see the greatest financial and professional rewards.

The Verdict: Is Franklin Right for You?

Pros of Being a PT in Franklin	Cons of Being a PT in Franklin
Strong Salaries: $98,932 median is solid for the cost of living.	High Competition for Home Buying: The housing market is expensive and competitive.
Robust Job Market (14% Growth): 177 jobs at any given time; diverse employers.	Nashville Commute: If you work in Nashville, traffic can be a major stressor.
Lower Cost of Living (97.4 Index): Your salary goes further than in Nashville proper.	Limited Public Transit: A car is a non-negotiable necessity.
Quality of Life: Safe, family-friendly, great schools, vibrant downtown.	Specialization Pressure: To earn top dollar, you may need to invest in certifications early.
Proximity to Nashville: Access to a major city's culture, events, and networking without living in it.	Niche Market: Less variety in practice settings compared to a major metropolitan center.

Final Recommendation:
Franklin is an excellent choice for Physical Therapists who value a high quality of life, a strong professional community, and the ability to earn a median salary ($98,932) that affords a comfortable lifestyle. It's ideal for early-to-mid-career PTs looking to grow in a supportive environment and for specialists who can command premium rates. If you are seeking a low-cost, high-wage metro, look elsewhere. But if you want a balanced career in a thriving, sophisticated suburb with a clear path for growth, Franklin is a top contender.

FAQs

1. Can I live in Nashville and commute to Franklin for PT work?
Yes, but it's not ideal. The commute is against traffic (south to Franklin in the morning, north to Nashville in the evening), but I-65 can still be congested. Expect a 30-45 minute drive one-way. Many PTs do this, but living in Franklin saves significant time and stress.

2. Is the job market saturated for new PT graduates in Franklin?
It is competitive, but not saturated. New grads should be prepared to apply broadly and consider starting in home health or larger hospital systems (like WMC or Vanderbilt) that have structured programs. A DPT degree from a reputable school and a good clinical rotation in orthopedics will make you a strong candidate.

3. Do most employers in Franklin offer benefits like loan repayment?
It varies. Large hospital systems (Vanderbilt, Ascension) are more likely to offer student loan repayment or forgiveness programs as part of their recruitment package. Smaller private practices may offer higher base salaries instead. It's a key question to ask during interviews.

4. What's the best way to network in the Franklin PT community?
The Tennessee Physical Therapy Association (TPTA) has an active Middle Tennessee district. Attend their conferences and local meetings. Also, consider joining a running club (like the Franklin Running Club) or a local sports team—many of your future patients and colleagues are active members of these groups.

5. How does the cost of living in Franklin compare to Nashville?
Franklin is generally more affordable than Nashville, especially for housing. While Nashville's median rent for a 1BR is closer to $1,600+, Franklin's is $1,442.