Career Guide for Physical Therapists in Killeen, TX

If you're a Physical Therapist (PT) considering a move to Central Texas, Killeen offers a unique blend of affordability and steady demand. As a local who's watched this market for years, I can tell you that this isn't a boomtown with explosive growth, but it's a reliable, steady market with a dedicated healthcare infrastructure built around the military community. It’s a practical choice for professionals who value low living costs and a stable job market over the hustle of Austin or Dallas. Let's break down the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the day-to-day reality of practicing PT here.

The Salary Picture: Where Killeen Stands

Killeen’s salary for Physical Therapists is competitive, especially when you factor in the region's low cost of living. The median salary here is $97,257/year, which works out to an hourly rate of $46.76/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $99,710/year, but the financial equation changes dramatically when you consider local expenses.

The job market is modest but consistent. There are approximately 319 PT jobs in the metro area. Over the last decade, the field has seen a 14% job growth, which is strong and signals sustained demand. This growth is largely tied to the aging population and the continued needs of the Fort Hood military community.

Here’s how salary typically breaks down by experience level in this market:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary in Killeen	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$85,000 - $92,000	New grads often start at major hospital systems or large outpatient clinics.
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$95,000 - $105,000	This aligns closely with the median. Specialization can push you to the higher end.
Senior (8-15 yrs)	$105,000 - $115,000	Often involves supervisory roles or niche specialties (e.g., vestibular rehab).
Expert/Lead (15+ yrs)	$115,000+	Typically seen in clinical director roles or specialized private practices.

How Killeen Compares to Other Texas Metro Areas:

• Austin: Median salary is higher (~$105,000), but the cost of living is dramatically higher.
• Dallas-Fort Worth: Similar salaries (~$100,000), but with a much higher cost of living and more competition.
• Waco: Very similar salary profile to Killeen, but with fewer large employers.
• San Antonio: Slightly lower salaries (~$94,000) but a larger, more diverse healthcare market.

Insider Tip: Salaries at the main hospital systems (Baylor Scott & White, Darnall Army Medical Center) are often more standardized and come with robust benefits packages, which can include loan repayment programs—a major perk for new grads.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

This is where Killeen truly shines for a salaried professional. Let’s run the numbers for an entry-level PT earning $97,257/year.

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Gross Monthly Income: $8,105
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, FICA, State): ~$2,200 (This is an estimate; consult a tax professional)
• Net Monthly Income: ~$5,905
• Average 1BR Rent in Killeen: $900/month
• Remaining for Utilities, Car, Food, Savings, Debt: ~$5,005

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Absolutely. With current median home prices in the Killeen metro around $250,000, a 20% down payment is $50,000. On a $97,257 salary, saving that amount is feasible within a few years of disciplined budgeting. A monthly mortgage payment (with taxes and insurance) would likely be between $1,400 - $1,700, which is still very manageable on a PT's salary. Renting for the first year is a common and wise strategy to get a feel for the area.

Where the Jobs Are: Killeen's Major Employers

The job market is anchored by a few key players. Hiring is steady but not frantic; positions are filled through consistent turnover rather than explosive growth.

1. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Killeen: The largest private employer in the region. They have a robust outpatient rehab department and inpatient services. Hiring trends favor PTs with orthopedic or neurological experience. They are known for competitive benefits and professional development opportunities.

2. Darnall Army Medical Center (Fort Hood): This is a major federal employer. Jobs here are for civilians (GS positions) and offer excellent federal benefits, including a pension. The patient population is unique, focusing on military service members and their families. Hiring can be slower and more bureaucratic, but the stability is unparalleled.

3. Select Physical Therapy (Encompass Health): A large national chain with multiple clinics in Killeen and Copperas Cove. They specialize in outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine. They often have the most openings and are a great landing spot for new grads. Expect a fast-paced, productivity-based environment.

4. St. David's HealthCare (in nearby Harker Heights): Part of the larger St. David's system, this hospital sees significant patient flow from the Killeen area. Their rehab department is growing, particularly in acute care and skilled nursing. Commuting to Harker Heights is a common and easy 15-20 minute drive.

5. Killeen Independent School District (KISD): PTs are needed for the district's special education programs, working with children from pre-K through high school. This is a school-based setting, offering summers off and a different pace from clinical work. Hiring is tied to the academic calendar.

6. Local Private Practices: Several smaller, specialized clinics exist, often focusing on sports rehab, pelvic health, or vestibular therapy. These are harder to find but offer more autonomy. Networking at local PT association meetings is key to landing these roles.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas licensure is managed by the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners (TBPTE). The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

1. Education: Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program.
2. Exam: Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for both PTs and the Texas Jurisprudence Assessment Module (TX JAM).
3. Background Check: Complete a fingerprint-based criminal history check.
4. Application: Submit the online application with required fees. Total initial licensure costs (exam, application, background check) typically run $400 - $500.
5. Timeline: From passing the NPTE to receiving your license, expect 4-8 weeks. You can work under a temporary permit while your full license is processed, which is common for new hires.

Key Resource: The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners website is your definitive source for all forms, fees, and updates.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Living in Killeen is about balancing commute, lifestyle, and cost. Here’s a local’s breakdown:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent	Insider Tip
South Killeen (near Fort Hood Blvd)	Convenient, military-centric, close to major employers like Baylor Scott & White and Darnall.	$850 - $1,000	Ideal for those working at the hospital or Fort Hood. Traffic is manageable.
North Killeen / Harker Heights	More suburban, newer construction, excellent schools. Commute to Killeen jobs is easy via Hwy 190.	$950 - $1,200	Popular with young professionals and families. The Harker Heights area feels like its own city.
Copperas Cove	Smaller town feel, very affordable, tight-knit community. 15-20 minute commute to Killeen.	$750 - $900	Great for those who want more space for their money and don't mind a short drive.
Killeen Downtown / Historic District	Walkable, emerging coffee shops and breweries. Older homes.	$800 - $1,100	For those who want a bit of urban charm. Limited rental stock; check Zillow diligently.

Commute Note: Traffic in Killeen is rarely a major issue compared to Austin or Dallas. A commute from any of these areas to a major employer is typically under 20 minutes.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year outlook for PTs in Killeen is solid, with 14% projected growth. To advance your career and income beyond the median, consider these paths:

• Specialization Premiums: Obtaining board-certified specialties (like Orthopedic, Sports, or Neurologic PT) can increase your salary by 10-15%. In Killeen, orthopedic and vestibular rehab are in high demand due to the active military population and aging civilian community.
• Leadership & Management: Moving into a Clinic Director or Rehab Manager role at a hospital or large clinic can push your salary well into the six figures.
• Home Health: This sector is growing with the aging population. PTs in home health often earn a higher per-visit rate, though income can be variable. It offers great flexibility.
• Private Practice: Starting your own cash-based practice (e.g., for performance or women's health) is possible but requires significant business acumen and networking.

The key is to get your foot in the door, build a reputation, and then seek out additional certifications that align with local needs.

The Verdict: Is Killeen Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Extremely low cost of living relative to salary.	Limited cultural and entertainment options compared to major metros.
Stable, predictable job market tied to military and healthcare.	Social life can feel small; you'll see the same people often.
Short, easy commutes and minimal traffic stress.	Career advancement may require more proactive effort (specialization, networking).
Strong sense of community and a "work to live" vibe.	The city's economy is heavily influenced by Fort Hood; diversification is slow.
Great base for exploring Central Texas (Austin, Waco, Hill Country are all within 1-2 hours).	Summers are very hot and humid.

Final Recommendation:
Killeen is an excellent choice for a Physical Therapist who is financially minded and values stability over excitement. It’s ideal for recent grads looking to pay down student loans aggressively, or for experienced PTs seeking a lower-stress environment with a high quality of life. If you thrive in a close-knit community and don't need big-city amenities at your doorstep, you'll find Killeen to be a surprisingly rewarding place to build your career and life.

FAQs

Q: Is it hard to find a job as a new graduate PT in Killeen?
A: It's competitive but very feasible. The large employers like Select Physical Therapy and Baylor Scott & White regularly hire new grads. Having a clinical rotation in the area or Texas in general gives you a significant advantage. Apply early and often.

Q: How does the military presence affect the PT profession in Killeen?
A: It creates a unique patient population with common needs like sports injuries, trauma rehab, and pelvic health. It also means employers are accustomed to working with military families, offering flexible scheduling. The federal jobs at Darnall are highly sought after for their benefits.

Q: What’s the best way to network with other PTs in the area?
A: Join the Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA) and attend local chapter meetings. The Central Texas district holds events that are well-attended by PTs from Killeen, Temple, and Waco. LinkedIn is also active among local healthcare professionals.

Q: Are there opportunities for PRN (as-needed) work?
A: Yes, PRN positions are common, especially at Baylor Scott & White and in home health agencies. This is a great way to supplement your income or test out different work settings before committing full-time.

Q: What’s the one thing I should know before moving to Killeen?
A: Understand that the city's rhythm is tied to the military. You'll hear artillery practice from Fort Hood, and the population can fluctuate with troop deployments. For most, it becomes a familiar background sound, but it's a unique aspect of life here that you won't find elsewhere.