Here is a comprehensive career guide for Physical Therapists considering a move to Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Physical Therapist Career Guide: Kenosha, WI

Kenosha might not be the first city that comes to mind for a physical therapy career, but that’s precisely why it’s an underrated opportunity. Situated on the Lake Michigan shore between Milwaukee and Chicago, Kenosha offers a lower cost of living, a growing healthcare sector, and a tight-knit professional community. As a local who has watched the city’s healthcare landscape evolve, I can tell you that Kenosha provides a balance of career stability and quality of life that’s becoming rare in larger metropolitan areas.

This guide is designed to give you a realistic, data-driven look at what it means to build a physical therapy career in Kenosha. We’ll dive into the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the local healthcare ecosystem to help you decide if this is the right move for you.

The Salary Picture: Where Kenosha Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that matter most. Physical therapy salaries in Kenosha are competitive, especially when you factor in the local cost of living. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market data, the financial outlook is solid.

Median Salary: $97,646/year
Hourly Rate: $46.95/hour

While the National Average for a Physical Therapist is $99,710/year, Kenosha’s median salary is slightly below the national figure. However, this is more than compensated for by the region’s lower living costs—a key point we’ll explore in the next section. The Jobs in Metro figure of 196 indicates a stable, mid-sized market. You’re not competing for thousands of positions, but there is consistent demand. The 10-Year Job Growth projection is 14%, a healthy rate that outpaces many other professions and suggests strong long-term demand for PT services, driven by an aging population and increased focus on preventative care.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salaries in Kenosha follow a predictable progression based on experience. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect at different career stages.

| Experience Level | Typical Annual Salary Range (Kenosha) | Notes |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $78,000 - $85,000 | New grads often start in acute care or outpatient orthopedics. Hospital systems may offer structured residency programs. |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $90,000 - $105,000 | Specialization (e.g., orthopedics, neuro) begins to pay off. Seniority at outpatient clinics leads to higher base pay. |
| Senior-Level (8-15 years) | $100,000 - $115,000 | Often involves clinical oversight, mentoring, or taking on complex cases. PRN (as-needed) rates can be very high. |
| Expert/Lead (15+ years) | $110,000 - $125,000+ | Typically practice owners, lead therapists in large systems, or consultants. Revenue generation and management are key. |

Comparison to Other Wisconsin Cities

To understand Kenosha’s standing, it’s helpful to compare it to other major Wisconsin metros.

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)
Kenosha, WI	$97,646	93.1
Milwaukee, WI	$98,120	96.5
Madison, WI	$99,850	103.2
Green Bay, WI	$94,500	91.8

Insider Insight: While Madison and Milwaukee may offer slightly higher nominal salaries, their cost of living is significantly higher. Kenosha and Green Bay provide better purchasing power. When you adjust for the cost of living, Kenosha’s salary is highly competitive.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $97,646 salary looks different after taxes and living expenses. Understanding your net income is crucial for budgeting and long-term planning.

Assumptions for this breakdown: Single filer, standard deduction, using Wisconsin’s 2024 state tax brackets. Federal taxes are estimated. This is a guideline; consult a tax professional.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a PT Earning $97,646:

• Gross Monthly Income: ~$8,137
• Estimated Taxes (Federal + State + FICA): ~$2,200 - $2,500
• Estimated Net Take-Home Pay: ~$5,700/month

Monthly Expenses in Kenosha:

• Rent (1BR Average): $1,071/month
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): $150 - $200
• Groceries: $350 - $450
• Car Payment/Insurance: $400 - $600 (Public transit is limited; a car is a necessity)
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered by employer): $200 - $400
• Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Savings): $1,000+

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Yes, absolutely. This is one of Kenosha’s biggest draws. With a net monthly income of ~$5,700 and average rent at $1,071, you have significant cash flow.

• Median Home Price in Kenosha (2024): ~$285,000
• 20% Down Payment: $57,000
• Estimated Monthly Mortgage (PITI): ~$1,800 - $2,000

A monthly mortgage payment of ~$1,900 is roughly 33% of your net income, which is a comfortable and standard ratio. Saving for a down payment is very feasible with the disposable income available after rent and other expenses. Many PTs in Kenosha own homes within 3-5 years of starting their careers, often in the neighborhoods listed below.

Where the Jobs Are: Kenosha's Major Employers

Kenosha’s healthcare ecosystem is anchored by a few key players. Understanding their specialties and hiring trends will help you target your job search.

1. Aurora Medical Center Kenosha (Advocate Health): The largest employer in the city. This is a full-service hospital with a robust inpatient rehab unit, acute care PT, and outpatient orthopedics. They offer structured residencies and are often hiring for various roles. Hiring Trend: Steady, with a focus on orthopedic and neurological specialties.

2. Froedtert South (formerly Kenosha Regional Medical Center): The other major hospital system in town. They have a strong outpatient orthopedic clinic and provide acute care services. The culture here is often described as more community-focused. Hiring Trend: Consistent need for outpatient orthopedic PTs, especially those with manual therapy skills.

3. Rheumatology & Rehabilitation: A Division of Tower Health: A large, well-established outpatient private practice. They specialize in orthopedic and rheumatologic conditions. This is a classic private practice setting where volume and outcomes are key. Hiring Trend: Frequently hires new grads and experienced PTs. They value efficiency and strong patient relationships.

4. Select Physical Therapy (Select Medical): Part of a national chain, this clinic offers a blend of orthopedic and work conditioning/hardening programs. It’s a good environment for learning standardized protocols. Hiring Trend: Often seeks PTs with a focus on sports medicine and work injuries.

5. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Ascension at Home, Aurora Home Health): The demand for home health PTs is growing rapidly with the aging population. This role offers autonomy and a different pace. Hiring Trend: Very high demand. Agencies are actively recruiting PTs with at least 1-2 years of experience.

6. Kenosha County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC): While not a direct employer for PTs, this is a crucial hub for networking. They contract with various home health and outpatient agencies and can be a source of referrals and contract opportunities.

Insider Tip: Many smaller, niche clinics (e.g., pelvic health, vestibular rehab) operate in Kenosha but are often not listed on major job boards. Building a network with local PTs through the Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association (WPTA) is the best way to uncover these "hidden" opportunities.

Getting Licensed in WI

Practicing in Wisconsin requires adherence to state licensing laws. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

Requirements (via the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services):

1. Education: Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PT program.
2. Examination: Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
3. Background Check: Submit to a criminal background check.
4. Jurisprudence Exam: Pass the Wisconsin Jurisprudence Exam (a 50-question test on state laws and rules).
5. Application: Submit a complete application to the Wisconsin DSPS with all required fees.

Timeline to Get Started:

• If you are already licensed in another state: You can apply for Licensure by Endorsement. The process typically takes 4-8 weeks once all documents are submitted. Wisconsin is part of the PT Compact, which simplifies multi-state licensure if you already hold a license in another compact state.
• If you are a new graduate: Plan for a 3-6 month timeline. This includes graduating, passing the NPTE, submitting your application, and waiting for approval. You can work as a PT aide or tech in the interim.

Costs (Approximate):

• NPTE Exam Fee: $485
• Wisconsin Jurisprudence Exam: $50
• Initial License Application Fee: $122
• Background Check: ~$45
• Total (New Graduate): ~$702

Insider Tip: The Wisconsin Jurisprudence Exam is not heavily weighted but is a required hurdle. Purchase the official study materials from the Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association (WPTA) website—it’s the most efficient way to pass on the first try.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Where you live in Kenosha will define your commute, lifestyle, and social circle. Here are the top neighborhoods for PTs.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Average 1BR Rent	Why PTs Love It
Downtown Kenosha	Walkable, urban, historic. Easy access to restaurants, lakefront, and the Metra station. Commute to hospitals is 5-10 mins.	$1,150 - $1,400	Ideal for young professionals who want to be in the heart of the action. Great for networking at local cafes and events.
Somers	Suburban, family-oriented. Quiet streets, good schools, and newer housing developments. Commute to major employers is 10-15 mins.	$1,000 - $1,200	Perfect for those looking to buy a home and start a family. It’s a peaceful retreat after a busy clinic day.
Pleasant Prairie	Mix of suburban and industrial. Close to shopping (Southport Corridor) and the I-94 corridor. Commute is 10-20 mins.	$950 - $1,150	Offers excellent value for renters and homebuyers. Great location for PTs working in home health who need easy highway access.
Northside / Uptown	Established, residential, and more affordable. Strong sense of community. Commute is 10-15 mins to most employers.	$800 - $1,000	A practical choice for new grads looking to minimize expenses while building savings. Diverse community and good local parks.
HarborSide / Marina Cove	Upscale, waterfront living. Modern condos and apartments with lake views. Commute is 5-10 mins.	$1,300 - $1,700	For PTs seeking a premium lifestyle. The walking paths along the lake are a fantastic stress reliever after work.

Insider Tip: Traffic in Kenosha is minimal compared to Milwaukee or Chicago. However, the commute from Pleasant Prairie or Somers can add 10-15 minutes if you’re working in Downtown Aurora Medical Center during peak hours. Always test-drive your potential commute during your interview process.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Kenosha is a great place to start, but where can your career go? The growth here is more about specialization and leadership than about climbing a corporate ladder.

Specialty Premiums:

• Orthopedics (OCS): The most common specialty, with a 5-10% salary premium. In-demand here due to the aging active population.
• Neurology (NCS): Less common but highly valued. Can command a 10-15% premium, especially in acute care and home health settings.
• Pelvic Health (WCS): An underserved niche in Kenosha. Starting a practice or clinic program here could be very lucrative with low competition.
• Clinical Research: While limited, opportunities exist through partnerships with universities or pharmaceutical trials. This is a path less traveled but can lead to national recognition.

Advancement Paths:

1. Clinical Ladder: Many systems (Aurora, Froedtert) have formal clinical ladders. Moving from PT II to PT III or Clinical Specialist often comes with a pay bump and leadership responsibilities.
2. Management: Clinic Director or Rehab Manager roles are available, especially in larger outpatient clinics and home health agencies. These roles focus on operations, budgeting, and staff development.
3. Private Practice Ownership: Kenosha’s supportive business environment and lower commercial lease rates make it feasible to open a solo or small-group practice. This is the highest-risk, highest-reward path.
4. Education: Adjunct teaching at local colleges (e.g., Carthage College, Gateway Technical College) or mentoring in residency programs provides supplemental income and professional fulfillment.

10-Year Outlook:
The 14% job growth is a strong indicator. Expect continued demand in home health and geriatrics. Telehealth PT is emerging slowly, but in-person care remains dominant in this community-focused city. The biggest opportunity lies in creating specialized programs (e.g., vestibular rehab, post-concussion care) that aren’t widely available.

The Verdict: Is Kenosha Right for You?

Kenosha isn’t for everyone. It’s a pragmatic choice for PTs who value financial stability, work-life balance, and a sense of community over the hustle of a major coastal city.

Pros	Cons
High Purchasing Power: Your salary goes significantly further here.	Limited Cultural/Nightlife: It’s a quiet city; you’ll need to go to Milwaukee or Chicago for big concerts or events.
Stable Job Market: Low turnover and steady demand from established employers.	Weather: Harsh, snowy winters can be a challenge for 4-5 months of the year.
Manageable Caseloads: Generally less pressure than high-volume clinics in larger cities.	Professional Networking: Smaller community means fewer large conferences or niche events locally.
Ideal for Homeownership: A realistic goal within a few years of starting your career.	Public Transit: Almost non-existent; owning a car is mandatory.
Proximity to Major Cities: Easy weekend trips to Milwaukee (45 mins) or Chicago (1.5 hours) via Metra train.	Climate: The lake effect can make winters more severe than areas just 10 miles inland.

Final Recommendation:
Kenosha is an excellent choice for early-to-mid-career Physical Therapists who want to build a strong financial foundation, potentially buy a home, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle. It’s particularly well-suited for those interested in orthopedics, home health, or building a community-based practice. If you’re a new grad looking for mentorship and a low cost of living, or an experienced PT seeking a less stressful environment, Kenosha deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

Q: Is Kenosha a good place for a new graduate PT?
A: Yes. The cost of living is manageable on a starting salary, and employers like Aurora and Froedtert South often have structured residency or mentorship programs. You’ll find a supportive community rather than a cutthroat competitive environment.

Q: How does the lake effect snow impact my daily life as a PT?
A: It’s a real factor. You’ll need a reliable, all-wheel-drive vehicle and a good set of snow tires. Commutes can be slower in heavy snow, but major roads are usually cleared quickly. Factor in about $500 annually for winter car maintenance and gear.

Q: Are there opportunities for PTs to work with athletes in Kenosha?
A: While Kenosha doesn’t have a major university with big-time sports, there is a dedicated high school sports scene and several community sports clubs. Opportunities exist in outpatient clinics that specialize in sports rehab. Networking with local athletic trainers is the best way to find these roles.

Q: What’s the best way to network in Kenosha’s small PT community?
A: Join the Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association (WPTA) and attend their regional meetings. Also, consider volunteering at local health fairs or marathon events. Kenosha’s PTs are generally friendly and collaborative; a coffee invitation to a senior PT at your target employer can yield valuable insights.

**Q: Can I live in Kenosha and commute