Physical Therapist in Fremont, NE

The Salary Picture: Where Fremont Stands

As a career analyst who’s spent years watching the Nebraska job market, I can tell you that Fremont’s salary landscape for Physical Therapists is a standout in the region. It’s not just competitive; it’s a solid financial foundation in a city where your dollar goes far. Let’s break down the numbers.

First, the core data: the median salary for a Physical Therapist in Fremont is $96,868/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $46.57/hour. It’s important to understand this is the median, meaning half of the PTs in the metro earn more, and half earn less. This figure sits slightly below the national average of $99,710/year, but the context is key. When you factor in Fremont’s cost of living, that slight gap disappears and becomes a significant advantage.

The job market itself is modest but stable. There are currently 54 jobs listed in the metro area, which might seem small, but for a city of 27,321 people, it indicates a healthy demand. The 10-year job growth projection is 14%, aligning with national trends, which means the field is expanding, not contracting. This growth is driven by an aging population and a greater emphasis on outpatient rehabilitation and sports medicine.

To understand where you might fit, here’s a realistic salary breakdown by experience level based on local job postings and BLS data for the Midwest region. These are estimates, but they reflect the local market's structure.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Fremont, NE)	Key Responsibilities & Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$82,000 - $90,000	Primarily in acute care (e.g., Methodist Fremont Health) or under supervision in outpatient clinics. Focus on core competency building.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$94,000 - $105,000	Greater autonomy, potential for specialty caseloads (ortho, neuro). Often leads to senior roles or clinic management tracks.
Senior-Level (8-12 years)	$105,000 - $118,000	Mentorship, complex patient cases, involvement in clinic operations or program development. May hold OCS or NCS credentials.
Expert/Specialist (12+ years)	$115,000 - $130,000+	Leadership (Director of Rehab), highly specialized practice (e.g., pelvic health, vestibular rehab), or private practice ownership.

How does Fremont compare to other Nebraska cities?

• Omaha: Higher salary potential ($102,000 median) but significantly higher cost of living and competition. The job pool is vastly larger (hundreds of postings).
• Lincoln: Similar to Omaha in salary range but with a more academic/research-focused market (University of Nebraska, Bryan Health). Rent is higher.
• Grand Island: Slightly lower median salary (~$92,000) but a comparable cost of living. Job density is lower.
• Kearney: Similar salary range, but the market is heavily influenced by the University of Nebraska-Kearney and regional hospital systems.

Insider Tip: In Fremont, you’ll often find that salaries are slightly compressed at the entry-level but can accelerate quickly with experience and specialization, especially if you can fill a niche in orthopedics or geriatrics. The 54 local jobs suggest employers are actively seeking experienced PTs, not just new graduates.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary is only as good as what it can buy you. Fremont is renowned for its affordability, which dramatically impacts a PT’s quality of life. Let’s run the numbers for a PT earning the median salary of $96,868/year.

Assumptions for this breakdown:

• Filing status: Single, 1 allowance
• Estimated taxes (Federal, State, FICA, Medicare): ~24% of gross income (a reasonable estimate for this bracket)
• Average 1BR Rent: $859/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown (PT earning $96,868/year)

Category	Monthly Amount (Estimated)	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$8,072	($96,868 / 12)
Estimated Taxes (24%)	-$1,937	Varies by deductions, retirement contributions.
Net Take-Home Pay	$6,135	This is your working budget.
Rent (1BR Average)	-$859	14% of take-home pay. Exceptionally low.
Utilities	-$150	Electricity, gas, water, internet.
Groceries & Household	-$400
Car Payment/Insurance	-$400	Assuming a modest car payment.
Gas/Transport	-$150
Health Insurance (post-tax)	-$200	Employer-sponsored, employee contribution.
Retirement/401(k)	-$400	5% of gross income. This is critical.
Discretionary Spending	$2,576	Entertainment, dining, savings, travel, student loans.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Absolutely, and with ease. The median home price in Fremont is approximately $230,000. A 20% down payment is $46,000. With a take-home pay of over $6,000/month and minimal rent burden, saving $46,000 is a very achievable goal, often within 2-3 years of disciplined saving. A standard 30-year mortgage on a $230,000 home with 20% down (~$184,000 loan) at current rates would be around $1,100-$1,200/month (including taxes/insurance), which is still a very manageable 18-20% of take-home pay. This is the single biggest financial advantage of working in Fremont compared to coastal or larger metro areas.

Where the Jobs Are: Fremont's Major Employers

Fremont’s healthcare market is anchored by a few key players, with a mix of hospital-based and private outpatient clinics. The hiring trend I’ve observed is a preference for candidates with orthopedic or neurological experience, and a growing need for therapists willing to work in home health or rural outreach.

1. Methodist Fremont Health: The largest employer in the area. They have a full-service acute care rehab department (inpatient) and an outpatient orthopedic clinic (Momentum Rehab & Fitness). Hiring is steady, especially as they expand their outpatient services. They often post jobs for both inpatient and outpatient roles. Insider Tip: Working here gives you access to a diverse caseload, from post-op joints to complex cardiac rehab.

2. Fremont Health Medical Center (Part of the Nebraska Medicine Network): While the primary hospital is Methodist, Nebraska Medicine has a growing presence. They sometimes have PT openings in their outpatient or specialty clinics. The system is known for strong clinical support and continuing education.

3. Midwest Physical Therapy (Private Practice): A well-established local outpatient clinic focusing on orthopedics and sports medicine. They are known for a strong mentorship environment for new graduates and a collaborative team. They often hire for multiple locations within the region.

4. ProActive Physical Therapy: Another key private outpatient practice in Fremont. They emphasize manual therapy and have a strong reputation in the community. Hiring tends to be for experienced therapists who can manage their own caseloads with minimal supervision.

5. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Home Instead, Visiting Nurse Association): A growing segment. With an aging population, home health PTs are in demand. The pay is often higher (or on par with outpatient) due to mileage reimbursement and autonomy. This is a great option if you prefer a non-clinical setting and enjoy driving.

6. School Districts (Fremont Public Schools): PTs are hired to work within the special education system. These positions are often salaried, follow the school calendar (summers off), and offer excellent benefits. They are highly competitive and require a pediatric specialization or experience.

7. Athletic Departments (Fremont High School & Midland University): While not full-time positions, these are often supplemental roles for PTs looking to work in sports medicine. Building relationships here can lead to contracts for team coverage.

Getting Licensed in NE

Licensure is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Bureau of Podiatric and Rehabilitation Therapists, handles licensing.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Education: Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PT program.
2. Examination: Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTs. This is the same nationwide exam.
3. Jurisprudence Exam: Pass the Nebraska Jurisprudence Exam. This is an open-book test on state-specific rules and statutes. You can take this at any time, but it must be passed before licensure is granted.
4. Background Check: Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
5. Application: Submit a complete application to the Nebraska DHHS, including official transcripts and proof of NPTE score.

Costs and Timeline (Estimate):

• NPTE Exam Fee: ~$485 (paid to the FSBPT).
• Nebraska Jurisprudence Exam Fee: ~$50.
• License Application Fee: ~$150.
• Background Check Fee: ~$50.
• Total Estimated Cost: $735 (excluding travel to a testing center if needed).

Timeline: Most new graduates can expect the following process:

• Months 1-2: Graduate, study for and take the NPTE.
• Month 3: Take the Nebraska Jurisprudence Exam (can be done online).
• Month 4: Submit all paperwork, fingerprints, and fees. Processing can take 4-6 weeks.
• Month 5: Receive Nebraska license. You can then start applying for jobs and begin work.

Insider Tip: Start the Nebraska Jurisprudence Exam study before your graduation. The material is specific to Nebraska, and you don’t want to delay your job search. The state board website is your best friend here.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Fremont is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own feel. As a PT, your commute to major employers (mostly central) and lifestyle needs will guide your choice.

1. Downtown / Historic District:

   • Vibe: Walkable, charming, with local coffee shops, restaurants, and the Fremont Opera House. Mix of historic homes and apartments.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to Methodist Fremont Health and most outpatient clinics.
   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950 for a 1BR apartment in a converted historic building.
   • Best For: Young professionals who want a vibrant, walkable social scene and a short commute.

2. Westside / Medical District:

   • Vibe: Quiet, residential, and family-oriented. Close to parks and the high school.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to Methodist via 30th Street. Very convenient for hospital employees.
   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,100 for a 1BR or small 2BR house.
   • Best For: PTs working at the hospital who value a short, easy commute and a peaceful home environment.

3. Northridge / Eastside:

   • Vibe: Suburban, newer developments, and more affordable single-family homes. Excellent for homeowners.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to central employers. The drive is straightforward on major roads like 30th Street or Scott Street.
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,000 for a 1BR apartment in a newer complex.
   • Best For: Those looking to buy a home in the near future, or who prefer a more suburban, quiet lifestyle.

4. Southside / Near Noddle Avenue:

   • Vibe: Established, affordable neighborhoods with a mix of older homes and apartments. Close to shopping centers.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to central employers.
   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $850 for a 1BR apartment, often the most affordable option.
   • Best For: Recent graduates or those focused on financial savings. The low rent allows for maximum savings toward a home or student loans.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Fremont may not have the academic centers of Omaha or Lincoln, but it offers clear, practical paths for advancement.

Specialty Premiums and Advancement Paths:

• Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS): This is the most valued and recognized specialty in Fremont’s outpatient market. Therapists with OCS can command salaries at the high end of the mid-level range and are often tapped for clinical director roles. Many local clinics (like Midwest PT) actively support staff in pursuing this certification.
• Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS): Less common but highly needed. Opportunities exist within hospital inpatient rehab and specialized outpatient programs for stroke or Parkinson’s patients.
• Pelvic Health PT: An emerging specialty with high demand. There are few specialists in the area, so a therapist with this training could command a premium salary and potentially start their own niche practice.
• Management/Clinic Director: The most common advancement path. After 5-7 years, experienced PTs can move into overseeing a clinic’s operations, managing staff, and handling business development. This comes with a salary increase of 10-20%.
• Private Practice Ownership: The ultimate goal for some. With a lower cost of living and a supportive community, starting a small practice in a niche (e.g., sports performance, pediatric PT) is more feasible in Fremont than in larger markets.

10-Year Outlook (Dual Perspective):

• Scenario A (Stay in Clinical Practice): You can expect steady salary growth, moving from the $96,868 median toward the $110,000+ range with an OCS and seniority. You’ll build a strong local reputation and have a good work-life balance.
• Scenario B (Move into Leadership or Ownership): Your path could lead to a Director of Rehab role (potentially $120,000+) or owning a small practice. The 14% job growth supports this expansion, and the low overhead in Fremont makes entrepreneurship more attainable.

The Verdict: Is Fremont Right for You?

Fremont isn’t for everyone, but for the right PT, it’s an exceptional career and life choice.

Pros	Cons
Excellent Cost of Living: Your salary stretches incredibly far. Homeownership is within easy reach.	Limited Specialization: Fewer niche opportunities compared to Omaha/Lincoln. You may need to commute for certain specialties.
Stable Job Market: 54 jobs and 14% growth indicate a healthy, non-competitive market.	Smaller Network: Fewer PTs in the area means a smaller professional network for collaboration or job changes.
Short Commutes & Low Stress: 10-15 minute commutes are the norm, contributing to a better work-life balance.	Cultural & Dining Scene: More limited than a big city. You’ll often drive to Omaha for major concerts, pro sports, or diverse cuisine.
Supportive Community: You’ll become a known face in the healthcare community quickly, which can be professionally rewarding.	Weather: Winters are cold and can be snowy. Summers are hot and humid. A definite change from coastal climates.
High Quality of Life for Families: Safe, with good schools and abundant parks and outdoor activities (like the Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area).	Limited Public Transit: You will absolutely need a reliable car.

Final Recommendation:
Fremont is an ideal choice for a Physical Therapist who is financially motivated, values work-life balance, and is comfortable in a community-oriented setting. It’s perfect for someone in their early-to-mid career looking to aggressively pay down student loans or save for a home. It’s also an excellent location for a PT with a growing family. If you crave the anonymity and endless options of a major metropolis, you may feel constrained. But if you want to build a meaningful, financially secure, and balanced life where you are a valued part of the community, Fremont offers a compelling and often overlooked opportunity.

FAQs

1. I’m a new graduate PT. Are there jobs for me in Fremont?
Yes, but you’ll need to be strategic. While new grad residencies are rare, employers like Methodist Fremont Health and Midwest Physical Therapy have a history of hiring new graduates and providing strong mentorship. It’s crucial to highlight your clinical rotations and any specialized interests (e.g., orthopedics, geriatrics) in your application. The median salary of $96,868 is typically for mid-level PTs, so expect to start closer to the $82,000-$90,000 range, but with rapid growth potential.

2. How does the low cost of living impact long-term earning potential?
Positively. While your nominal salary might be slightly below the national average, your real income (after housing and fixed costs) is significantly higher. This allows for greater savings, investment, and discretionary spending. In Fremont, a PT earning $96,868 has more purchasing power than a PT earning **$11