Physical Therapist in Mansfield, TX

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Physical Therapists considering a move to Mansfield, TX.

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The Salary Picture: Where Mansfield Stands

As a Physical Therapist, your earning potential is solid in Mansfield. The median salary for the role here is $100,697/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $48.41/hour. This is a healthy bump above the national average of $99,710/year. While the difference isn't massive, it becomes more significant when you factor in Texas's lack of state income tax.

The job market is active but competitive. With approximately 159 job openings for PTs in the metro area and a 10-year job growth projection of 14%, you're looking at a stable, growing field. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is a massive healthcare hub, and Mansfield benefits from that proximity without the intense competition or higher cost of living of downtown Dallas.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of salary progression based on experience levels in the local market.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary (Mansfield, TX)
Entry-Level	0-2	$78,000 - $89,000
Mid-Career	3-7	$92,000 - $108,000
Senior-Level	8-15	$105,000 - $125,000
Expert/Lead	15+	$120,000+

Insider Tip: Specialties significantly impact your pay. A licensed PT with a board certification in Orthopedics (OCS) or Sports (SCS) can command a premium of 5-15% above these figures. Employers like Baylor Scott & White and Texas Health Resources often have structured pay scales that reward these credentials.

When comparing to other Texas cities, Mansfield offers a compelling balance. Austin and Houston have slightly higher median salaries for PTs, but the cost of living, particularly housing, is dramatically higher. In Dallas-Fort Worth, the salary is comparable, but the daily commute from Mansfield to central Dallas can be brutal. Mansfield provides a suburban lifestyle with big-city job access, making the $100,697 median salary go further.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A $100,697 annual salary sounds great, but what does your monthly budget look like in Mansfield? We'll assume you're a single filer, taking the standard deduction for 2024, and accounting for Texas's 6.2% Social Security tax and 1.45% Medicare tax (we'll ignore the additional Medicare tax for this bracket). Federal income tax will vary based on your specific deductions, but we'll use a conservative estimate.

• Gross Monthly Income: $100,697 / 12 = $8,391
• Estimated Deductions (Federal, FICA, Insurance, 401k): ~$2,100
• Estimated Net Monthly Take-Home: ~$6,291

Now, let's factor in the cost of living. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Mansfield is $1,291/month. The overall Cost of Living Index for Mansfield is 103.3 (US avg = 100). This means it's about 3.3% more expensive than the national average, driven largely by housing costs, but offset by lower taxes and utilities compared to the national average.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a PT earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Net Income	$6,291	After taxes & standard deductions
Rent (1BR)	$1,291	Average for the area
Utilities	$200	Electricity, water, internet, gas
Car Payment/Insurance	$600	Texas is car-dependent; insurance is moderate
Fuel	$180	Commuting to work, errands
Groceries	$500	For one person
Health/Renters Insurance	$250	If not fully covered by employer
Student Loans	$400	National average for PTs
Discretionary/Personal	$1,870	Dining out, entertainment, savings, retirement
Total Expenses	$5,291
Remaining for Savings/Investment	$1,000

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, absolutely. With a take-home pay of over $6,000 and a mortgage, you'd be in a strong position. The median home price in Mansfield hovers around $400,000 - $450,000. A 20% down payment ($80k-$90k) might seem daunting, but with the leftover $1,000+/month in the budget, aggressive saving for 4-6 years is feasible. If you're part of a dual-income household, buying becomes much quicker. Many PTs in the area opt for starter homes in neighborhoods like Historic Downtown Mansfield or the newer subdivisions off Highway 157.

Where the Jobs Are: Mansfield's Major Employers

Mansfield is part of the larger DFW healthcare network. Most PT jobs are split between large hospital systems, private outpatient clinics, and skilled nursing facilities. Here are the key players you need to know:

1. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Mansfield: This is the primary hospital in the city. They have a robust inpatient rehab and outpatient orthopedics department. Hiring here is competitive but offers excellent benefits and a clear path for specialization. They tend to prefer clinicians with a few years of experience.

2. Texas Health Resources (THR) – Mansfield: While the main hospital is in nearby Fort Worth, THR has a large outpatient physical therapy clinic right off I-20. This is a major employer for outpatient PTs. They have a strong emphasis on continuing education and evidence-based practice.

3. Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Mansfield: This is a dedicated inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) on Matlock Road. It's a powerhouse for PTs who want to focus on high-acuity cases like stroke, spinal cord injury, and complex orthopedics. They are often hiring and provide great training for new grads.

4. Select Physical Therapy: Part of the massive Select Medical network, this clinic has a strong presence in the DFW area, including Mansfield. They specialize in outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine and are known for their mentorship programs for new graduates.

5. Aberdeen Physical Therapy: A local, therapist-owned private practice. This is a fantastic option if you prefer a smaller, community-focused clinic. They often have a more personalized approach to patient care and can be more flexible with treatment plans. They value relationship-building with local physicians.

6. Various Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Facilities like Mansfield Nursing Center and The Rehabilitation Center of Mansfield are consistently hiring PTs for geriatric care. These roles can be high-volume but offer a stable schedule (typically weekdays) and are a great way to build clinical experience.

Hiring Trends: The demand is strongest for outpatient orthopedic and neurological specialists. There's also a growing need for home health PTs, as the 65+ population in Tarrant County is expanding. If you have your CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) credential, you'll be highly sought after by outpatient sports clinics.

Getting Licensed in TX

If you're moving from another state, you'll need to secure licensure from the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners (TBPTE). Start this process before you move if possible.

Requirements for Licensure by Endorsement (for licensed PTs from another state):

• You must hold a current, active license in another state with no disciplinary actions.
• You must have passed the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
• You must provide verification of your license from all states where you are or have been licensed.
• You must complete the Texas Jurisprudence Assessment Module (TX JAM) online.
• You must complete a fingerprint background check.

Costs (Approximate):

• License Application Fee: $220
• Jurisprudence Assessment Module (TX JAM): $50
• Fingerprinting: $50
• Total: ~$320

Timeline:
The process can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks. The longest part is often waiting for other state boards to send your license verification. Insider Tip: Submit your application to the TBPTE as soon as you have a job offer in hand. You can work under a temporary permit while your full license is processed, but this requires extra paperwork with your employer.

If you're a new grad, you'll apply for licensure by examination. The process is similar but includes sending your official transcripts and proof of graduation directly to the TBPTE.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Mansfield is a sprawling suburb. Choosing the right neighborhood is key to balancing your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

1. Historic Downtown Mansfield:

   • Vibe: Charming, walkable, with local coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Filled with older, beautifully restored homes.
   • Commute: Excellent. Central to most employers, including the hospital and major clinics. Easy access to I-20 and Highway 157.
   • Rent Estimate: A 1BR in a renovated historic building might run $1,400 - $1,600.
   • Best For: PTs who want a community feel and a short, easy commute.

2. South Mansfield / The Vineyards:

   • Vibe: Established, quiet suburban neighborhoods with mature trees, good schools, and parks. Mostly single-family homes.
   • Commute: Very good. Central location with quick access to the hospitals and the Mansfield Independent School District (MISD).
   • Rent Estimate: Renting a house or townhome is more common here. Expect $1,800 - $2,200 for a 2-3 bedroom rental.
   • Best For: PTs with families or those who want more space and a traditional suburban lifestyle.

3. East Mansfield (off 157 towards Grand Prairie):

   • Vibe: Rapidly developing area with lots of new construction, both apartment complexes and single-family subdivisions.
   • Commute: Good, but can be congested on Highway 157 during peak hours. Closer to entertainment and shopping in Grand Prairie.
   • Rent Estimate: Modern 1BR apartments are abundant, averaging around $1,200 - $1,400.
   • Best For: New grads and younger PTs looking for newer amenities and a more affordable entry point into the rental market.

4. West Mansfield (off FM 157 towards Burleson):

   • Vibe: Similar to South Mansfield, with newer subdivisions and a strong family orientation. More affordable than the central core.
   • Commute: Decent, but you'll be dealing with more traffic on FM 157. Still a manageable 15-20 minute drive to the main employers.
   • Rent Estimate: Highly competitive. A 1BR apartment can be found for $1,100 - $1,300.
   • Best For: Budget-conscious professionals who prioritize value and don't mind a slightly longer commute.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career as a PT in Mansfield is not a dead-end; it's a foundation for growth. The proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth means you have access to top-tier continuing education, residency programs, and mentorship opportunities.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Orthopedics (OCS): The most common specialty. Opens doors to high-level outpatient clinics, university athletic departments (UT Arlington is close), and private sports facilities.
• Sports (SCS): Highly valuable. You could work with local high schools, club teams, or even travel with athletes.
• Neurology (NCS): In high demand at inpatient rehab facilities (like Encompass) and for home health companies specializing in neurological disorders.
• Geriatrics (GCS): With the aging population, this is a growth area. SNFs and home health are always looking for certified geriatric specialists.
• Pelvic Health (WCS): An emerging and highly sought-after specialty with relatively few providers in the area. A great niche for starting a cash-based side practice.

10-Year Outlook:
The 14% job growth over the next decade is robust. The DFW metroplex is one of the fastest-growing in the country, and Mansfield is a key suburb. As the population ages and the emphasis on outpatient care grows, the need for PTs will only increase. A 10-year plan could look like this: Years 1-3 in an outpatient ortho clinic to build a broad base, Years 4-7 specializing (e.g., OCS, SCS) and potentially taking on a lead PT role, Years 8-10 moving into a clinical director position, starting a niche private practice, or becoming a clinical instructor for DPT students from nearby universities like Texas Woman's University or University of North Texas Health Science Center.

The Verdict: Is Mansfield Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Strong Salary Relative to Cost of Living: The $100,697 median goes further here than in Austin or Dallas proper.	Car Dependency: You absolutely need a reliable car. Public transit is minimal.
Excellent Job Market: Proximity to the massive DFW healthcare hub provides stability and options.	Suburban Lifestyle: If you crave a dense, urban environment with 24/7 nightlife, this isn't it.
Great for Families: Top-rated MISD schools, tons of parks, and a safe community feel.	Traffic Congestion: While better than downtown, I-20 and Highway 157 get very busy during rush hour.
Strategic Location: You get a quieter life but are a 20-30 minute drive from major DFW attractions and airports.	Limited Public Spaces: The city is spread out; there isn't one central "town square" for the entire population.

Final Recommendation:

Mansfield is an excellent choice for a mid-career Physical Therapist or a new grad looking for stability and a high quality of life. If you value a suburban lifestyle, good schools, and the ability to afford a home while building a strong career, Mansfield checks all the boxes. It's particularly well-suited for PTs who want to specialize in orthopedics, sports, or neurology and leverage the DFW job market for growth.

If you're a new grad who wants to be in the heart of a bustling, walkable city with a vibrant nightlife, you might find Dallas more exciting. But for long-term career growth with a manageable cost of living, Mansfield is a smart, strategic move.

FAQs

1. Is it easy to find a job as a new PT graduate in Mansfield?
Yes, but you need to be proactive. While some employers prefer 1-2 years of experience, many larger networks like Select Physical Therapy and outpatient clinics have structured new graduate mentorship programs. Start applying 3-4 months before your graduation date. Network with local PTs on LinkedIn and attend Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA) events in the DFW area.

2. What is the commute like from Mansfield to Dallas or Fort Worth?
It's manageable but can be time-consuming. To central Dallas, expect a 30-45 minute drive without major traffic, but it can easily exceed 1.5 hours during peak rush hour. To downtown Fort Worth, it's typically 25-35 minutes. Most PTs in Mansfield work within the city or in immediate neighboring towns like Arlington or Burleson to avoid the worst of the commute.

3. How does the lack of state income tax in Texas affect my take-home pay?
It has a significant positive impact. While you still pay federal taxes and FICA, you avoid the 0% to 13.3% state income tax that other states charge. For a median salary of $100,697, this could mean several thousand more dollars in your pocket annually compared to a state like California or New York. It's a key reason why your salary goes further here.

4. Are there opportunities for cash-based PT or private practice in Mansfield?
Yes, and it's a growing market. While the area is served by major corporate clinics, there is room for niche practices. Pelvic health, vestibular therapy, and performance training for athletes are underserved areas. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, establishing a cash-based practice or offering mobile PT services to older adults can be very lucrative, especially given the affluent suburbs surrounding Mansfield.

5. What are the continuing education (CEU) opportunities like locally?
They are excellent. You are in a major metro area. The Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA) holds frequent conferences and courses in the DFW area. Major employers like Baylor Scott & White and Texas Health Resources provide significant in-house CEU training. Additionally, you are within driving distance of specialized courses offered through universities like UT Southwestern Medical Center and Texas Woman's University.

Data Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners (TBPTE), Zillow, RentCafe, and local job market analysis. Salary data is specific to the Mansfield, TX, metropolitan area.