Physical Therapist in Savannah, GA

The Salary Picture: Where Savannah Stands

As a local who’s watched the healthcare scene in Savannah evolve over the last decade, I can tell you the salary landscape is a mixed bag—solid for the region, but not top-tier compared to major metros. Let’s break it down with the hard numbers.

The median salary for a Physical Therapist in Savannah is $98,393 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $47.3. This places Savannah slightly below the national average of $99,710/year, but it’s important to note the cost of living here is about 4.4% lower than the U.S. average (index of 95.6 vs. 100). That adjustment makes the purchasing power of your paycheck feel more competitive.

Here’s how experience typically maps to earnings in our local market:

Experience Level	Typical Salary Range (Savannah)	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$78,000 - $88,000	Often starts in hospital-based acute care or large outpatient clinics. New grads may need to be flexible with shifts.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$90,000 - $105,000	This is where you hit the local median. Specialization begins to pay off, especially in orthopedics or neurology.
Senior (8-15 years)	$105,000 - $120,000	Leadership roles (Lead PT, Clinic Director) or niche specialties. Home health with mileage reimbursement can push this higher.
Expert (15+ years)	$115,000 - $135,000+	Often seen in private practice ownership, high-level clinical specialist roles, or consulting with regional medical groups.

When you compare Savannah to other Georgia cities, the picture clarifies. Atlanta, with its massive healthcare networks and higher cost of living, sees PTs earning closer to the national average and often above it. Augusta, with its military and VA hospitals, tends to hover around Savannah’s median. Columbus and Macon typically lag behind. Savannah’s edge isn’t in raw salary, but in the combination of a reasonable cost of living, a unique community feel, and growing demand in a stable job market.

Insider Tip: Don’t just look at the base salary. Many local employers, especially the major hospital systems, offer strong benefits packages that can add $10,000-$15,000 in value annually. This includes employer contributions to retirement (often 403b), comprehensive health insurance, and generous continuing education allowances—a non-negotiable for staying licensed and competitive.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get practical. A median salary of $98,393 sounds good, but what does it mean for your monthly budget in Savannah?

Assuming you’re single, filing as Head of Household (a common tax status for professionals), and using 2024 tax brackets (roughly 22% federal, 5.75% state), your estimated take-home pay would be approximately $5,900 per month after taxes.

Now, let’s layer in the primary local fixed cost: housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Savannah is $1,287/month. However, this is a city-wide average. A modern apartment in the trendy Midtown or Historic District can easily run $1,500+, while a place in the suburbs like Pooler or Southside might be closer to $1,100.

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

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$5,900	After federal/state taxes, Social Security, Medicare.
Rent (1BR, Midtown)	-$1,287	Using the metro average for a realistic baseline.
Utilities (Elec/Water/Gas)	-$180	Savannah's humid summers can spike electricity bills.
Groceries	-$450
Car Payment/Insurance	-$500	Savannah is a driving city; public transit is limited.
Health Insurance (post-employer)	-$150	Assuming employee contribution.
CEUs & Professional Dues	-$100	A necessary and recurring cost.
Retirement (401k/403b - 5%)	-$410	Critical for long-term wealth.
Entertainment/Dining	-$400	Savannah's social scene is vibrant but can be a budget drain.
Miscellaneous/Savings	-$2,423	Leftover for savings, debt, travel, or future home down payment.

Can you afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a median salary of $98,393, a healthy credit score, and a solid down payment, you are well within the range for homeownership in the Savannah metro. The median home price here hovers around $315,000. Lenders typically look for a debt-to-income ratio under 36%. With your take-home pay and a manageable car payment, a monthly mortgage around $1,800-$2,000 is feasible. Neighborhoods like Port Wentworth, parts of midtown like Ardsley Park, and the growing suburbs of Pooler and Richmond Hill offer more space for your money.

Where the Jobs Are: Savannah's Major Employers

Savannah’s healthcare ecosystem is dominated by a few key players, with steady hiring driven by an aging population and post-pandemic demand for outpatient rehab. Based on current postings and industry chatter, here are the primary employers.

1. St. Joseph's/Candler Hospital System: The largest private employer in the region. They have a massive outpatient rehab network (Candler Orthopedics & Sports Medicine) and a key inpatient PT department. Hiring trends are stable, with a focus on orthopedic and neurology specialists. They often recruit new grads for their acute care residency program.
2. Memorial Health University Medical Center: Part of the HCA Healthcare network, this is the region's Level I trauma center. Their PT department is busy and diverse, covering everything from ICU mobility to complex trauma rehab. HCA has a national reputation for strong benefits and internal mobility, making it a solid long-term employer.
3. Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital: A dedicated inpatient rehab facility on Savannah's south side. This is a prime spot for PTs who thrive in a team-based, goal-oriented setting treating stroke, spinal cord injury, and neurological conditions. They often hire for full-time and PRN (as-needed) positions.
4. PT Solutions of Savannah: A large, therapist-owned outpatient practice with multiple locations across the metro (Midtown, Southside, Pooler). Known for a strong company culture and investment in clinician development. They are consistently growing and are a frequent stop for both new grads and experienced therapists looking for outpatient orthopedics.
5. Savannah VA Outpatient Clinic: Part of the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center system. A highly sought-after employer due to federal benefits and a mission-driven environment. They serve a large veteran population with conditions like joint replacements, amputation rehab, and PTSD-related mobility issues. Jobs here are competitive but offer exceptional job security.
6. SouthCoast Health: A large, multi-specialty physician group with a robust physical therapy and sports medicine division. They offer a corporate-style environment with multiple locations and a focus on orthopedics and sports performance. Good for those who want to work closely with physicians.
7. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Heartland Home Health, Gentiva): The demand for home health PTs has exploded. You need a reliable car and a flexible schedule, but the autonomy and direct patient interaction are major draws. Pay is often a mix of salary and mileage reimbursement, which can boost your effective hourly rate.

Hiring Trend Insight: The biggest gap I see locally is in neurological rehab and pelvic health specialists. If you have—or are willing to pursue—certifications in these areas (NCS, WCS), you’ll be in high demand and can command a salary at the high end of the range.

Getting Licensed in GA

Georgia’s licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. It’s managed by the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy.

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.
3. Jurisprudence Exam: Pass the Georgia Jurisprudence Exam (open book, focuses on state rules and laws).
4. Background Check: Submit fingerprints for a background check.
5. Application: Submit a complete application to the Board, including all fees.

Timeline & Costs:

• NPTE Registration (FSBPT): ~$485
• Georgia Jurisprudence Exam: ~$50
• Application & Initial License Fee: ~$250
• Background Check: ~$50
• Total Estimated Initial Cost: ~$835 (not including study materials for the NPTE).

The typical timeline is 2-4 months post-graduation. You can apply for a temporary permit to start working while your full license is processed, which many local employers are familiar with. Insider Tip: Start studying for the Georgia Jurisprudence Exam while you're studying for the NPTE. It’s a straightforward way to pick up easy points and get licensed faster.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Your choice will depend on your lifestyle, commute, and budget. Here’s a local’s guide:

1. Midtown (Ardsley Park, Parkside): The classic Savannah experience. Walkable, leafy streets, historic homes, and a vibrant local scene (coffee shops, boutiques). Close to St. Joseph's/Candler. Rent for a 1BR garden apartment: $1,300 - $1,600. Commute to most hospitals is under 15 minutes. Best for those who want an urban, community feel.

2. Southside/Pooler: Modern, suburban living. You get more space for your money, newer apartment complexes, and easy highway access. This is where many young professionals and families settle. It's the hub for PT Solutions, Encompass Health, and many outpatient clinics. Rent for a 1BR: $1,100 - $1,400. Commute is typically 15-25 minutes, but traffic on I-95 and I-16 can be a factor.

3. Historic District/Downtown: For those who want to live in the heart of the action. Can be expensive for space, but offers unparalleled character. A 1BR in a historic building or new condo could run $1,500 - $2,200+. Commute is walkable or short drive to Memorial Health. Best for the social butterfly who wants nightlife and culture at their doorstep.

4. Richmond Hill (South of Savannah): A rapidly growing suburb with excellent schools and a more relaxed pace. It’s about a 25-30 minute commute to downtown hospitals but offers a true "small town" feel with newer homes. Rent for a 1BR is harder to find; most opt for renting a small house. Budget $1,300 - $1,600 for a small home or townhome. Ideal for those starting a family.

5. Thunderbolt/Wilmington Island: A coastal, residential feel. Close to the VA clinic and some outpatient practices, but a longer commute to the main hospitals. Offers water access and a quieter lifestyle. Rent for a 1BR: $1,200 - $1,500. Best for those who prioritize a commute over nightlife and want to be near the water.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Savannah is not a dead-end market for ambitious PTs. The 10-year job growth projection for the metro is 14%, which is healthy and indicates sustained demand.

Specialty Premiums:
Pursuing board certifications can significantly boost your earning potential and desirability.

• Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS): Highly valued in outpatient. Can add $5,000 - $10,000 to your base salary.
• Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS): In high demand for inpatient rehab (Encompass, Memorial) and the VA. Can add $7,000 - $12,000.
• Women's Health/Pelvic Floor (WCS): A severe shortage exists. Therapists with this skill set in private practice can set their own rates or command top salaries in clinics. Premium can be $10,000+.

Advancement Paths:

1. Clinical Ladder: Move from staff PT to Senior PT, Lead PT, or Clinic Director. This comes with management duties and a salary bump.
2. Private Practice: The ultimate goal for many. Opening your own clinic in a growing suburb like Pooler or Richmond Hill can be lucrative, but carries significant risk.
3. Education & Academia: Adjunct professorships at Armstrong State University (now part of Georgia Southern) or clinical instructor roles are available for experienced PTs.
4. Home Health/Entrepreneurship: Many seasoned PTs leave systems to start their own concierge home health practice or mobile PT service, catering to Savannah’s affluent senior population.

10-Year Outlook: The demand will remain strong. The key to growth will be specializing to differentiate yourself from new grads. The local market rewards expertise in neuro, pelvic health, and pediatrics. As the coastal region continues to grow, so will the need for PTs in outpatient and home health settings.

The Verdict: Is Savannah Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Cost of Living Advantage: Your $98,393 median salary goes further here than in Atlanta or the national average.	Salary Ceiling: Top-end salaries are lower than in major metros like Atlanta, Dallas, or Chicago.
Stable Job Market: A diverse base of employers (VA, major hospitals, outpatient chains) provides job security.	Limited Public Transit: A car is a necessity, adding to commuting costs.
Unique Quality of Life: Historic charm, coastal access, vibrant food scene, and a genuine sense of community.	Summer Humidity: The heat and humidity from June to September can be intense for outdoor activities.
Growing Demand: 14% job growth over 10 years ensures opportunities for the foreseeable future.	Tourist Crowds: Historic District can be overwhelming with tourists, especially during peak season.
Good for Families: Excellent suburbs with strong schools (Richmond Hill, Pooler) and a manageable pace.	Limited "Big City" Amenities: Fewer major concerts, pro sports, and cultural events compared to larger cities.

Final Recommendation:
Savannah is an excellent choice for Physical Therapists who prioritize quality of life and cost-effectiveness over chasing the absolute highest salary. It’s ideal for:

• New Grads: The stable employers offer good training grounds, and the lower cost of living reduces financial stress.
• Mid-Career Professionals: The ability to specialize and still afford a home makes it a smart long-term play.
• Those Seeking Work-Life Balance: If you want a career that pays well but leaves time to enjoy the coast, history, and community, Savannah delivers.

If your primary goal is to maximize income in the shortest time frame, you might look to Atlanta or the Northeast. But if you want a sustainable, rewarding career in a city with soul, Savannah is a formidable contender.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to get a job as a new grad in Savannah?
A: Yes, but be strategic. The major hospital systems (St. Joe's, Memorial) have formal residency programs that are competitive. Outpatient clinics like PT Solutions and SouthCoast Health are also frequent hirers of new grads. Your best bet is to apply 3-6 months before graduation and be open to PRN or part-time roles to get your foot in the door.

Q: How does the cost of living really compare?
A: While the overall index is 95.6, housing is the biggest factor. A $1,287/month rent for a 1BR is very reasonable compared to Atlanta ($1,600+) or coastal cities like Charleston ($1,800+). Groceries and utilities are close to the national average. Your median salary of $98,393 puts you in a comfortable position.

Q: What's the commute like in Savannah?
A: It can be deceptive. Savannah is geographically spread out. A 5-mile commute can take 15 minutes without traffic, but 30+ minutes during rush hour, especially crossing the bridges (Talmadge, Whitaker). Living near your workplace (e.g., Midtown if you work at St. Joe's, Southside if you work at PT Solutions) is a major quality-of-life win.

Q: Are there opportunities for side work or per-diem?
A: Absolutely. The PRN (as-needed) market is active, especially at the major hospitals and home health agencies. Many PTs pick up weekend or evening shifts at another facility for an extra $45-$55/hour. This is a common strategy to boost income without leaving your primary job.

Q: What's the best way to network locally?
A: Join the Georgia Physical Therapy Association (GPTA) and attend the annual conference (often held in Savannah). Connect with local PTs on LinkedIn. Many employers post jobs locally before going national. The Savannah Medical Society also hosts events that are good for meeting providers in other specialties.