Physical Therapist in Sheridan, WY

The Salary Picture: Where Sheridan Stands

As a career analyst who’s lived in Wyoming for years, I can tell you straight up: Physical Therapists in Sheridan aren’t getting rich, but they’re living comfortably. The median salary of $96,958 is solid for a mid-sized Wyoming city, especially when you factor in the low cost of living. Let’s break it down by experience level.

Experience Level	Sheridan Salary (Estimate)	National Average	Notes
Entry-Level	$78,000 - $85,000	$80,500	Recent grads from UW or other programs. Expect a 1-2 year residency or mentorship period.
Mid-Career	$96,958 (Median)	$99,710	5-10 years of experience. This is the sweet spot for most PTs in Sheridan.
Senior	$110,000 - $125,000	$115,000+	10+ years, often with clinical specialization or management duties.
Expert/Lead	$125,000+	$130,000+	Rare in a town this size; usually a clinic director or specialist at a major hospital.

Hourly Rate Insight: The $46.61/hour figure is key for those considering part-time or contract work, which is more common here than in big cities. You can often pick up weekend shifts at a local clinic or home health agency for premium pay.

For comparison, let’s look at where Sheridan stands against other Wyoming cities:

Wyoming City	Median PT Salary	Cost of Living Index	Key Employer
Sheridan	$96,958	90.8	Sheridan Memorial Hospital
Cheyenne	$101,200	94.1	Cheyenne Regional Medical Center
Casper	$98,500	93.5	Wyoming Medical Center
Laramie	$95,800	91.2	UW Medicine

Sheridan’s salary is right in the middle of the pack, but its Cost of Living Index of 90.8 (US Avg = 100) gives it a clear edge. You’re making nearly the same as in Cheyenne but your rent and groceries cost less. The 10-year job growth of 14% is also promising, outpacing the national average for PTs, which is about 17% (BLS data). With a metro population of 19,035, the job market is small but stable.

Insider Tip: The real salary story in Sheridan isn’t about the base number—it’s about the lifestyle it buys. The low competition for housing and the absence of state income tax in Wyoming make that $96,958 go much further than it would in Denver or Salt Lake City.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your monthly budget. Wyoming has no state income tax, which is a huge perk. Here’s a sample monthly breakdown for a PT earning the median salary of $96,958.

• Gross Monthly Income (before deductions): $8,079
• Estimated Take-Home (after federal tax, 401k, health insurance): ~$5,800
• Average 1BR Rent: $876/month
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): ~$250/month
• Groceries & Household: $450/month
• Car Payment/Insurance (Average for WY): $550/month
• Entertainment & Misc: $400/month
• Student Loan Payment (Est.): $400/month
• Savings/Investment: $2,874/month

Yes, you can absolutely afford to buy a home. The median home price in Sheridan is around $350,000. With your take-home pay and low rent, you could easily save a 20% down payment ($70,000) in 2-3 years. A mortgage on a $350k home would be roughly $1,700-$1,800/month (including taxes/insurance), which is less than 30% of your gross income—a comfortable standard.

Insider Tip: Many locals here don’t have PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) because they put down 20%. The lending market is conservative; shop local banks like First Federal Savings & Loan or Rocky Mountain Bank for better terms than national chains.

Where the Jobs Are: Sheridan's Major Employers

The job market for PTs in Sheridan is concentrated but offers variety. Here’s a breakdown of the top employers, known for their hiring trends.

1. Sheridan Memorial Hospital: The largest employer in the county. They run a comprehensive rehab department (inpatient and outpatient). Hiring is steady but competitive; they value local connections. They often post jobs on their own website first before going to national boards.
2. Advocate Rehabilitation at the YMCA: A major outpatient orthopedic clinic. This is a prime spot for mid-career PTs. They’re known for a strong focus on sports medicine and have a busy schedule. Hiring trends show they expand with population growth.
3. Big Horn Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine: A local, therapist-owned practice. They have a reputation for a great work-life balance and a tight-knit team. They hire fewer people but retain staff for years.
4. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Laramie County Home Health, local branches): High demand for home health PTs, especially for geriatric and post-surgical patients. This role offers more autonomy but requires travel across the county (Sheridan is large geographically).
5. North Big Horn Hospital (Lovell, WY): A 20-minute drive north. They serve the Lake DeSmet area and rural communities. Often has openings for generalist PTs willing to cover a broader range of conditions.
6. School District #2 (Sheridan County): PTs work within the special education department. This is a niche, stable job with summers off. It’s highly competitive and often filled internally.
7. Private Practice (various): Several smaller, specialized clinics focus on pelvic health, vestibular rehab, or pediatrics. These are rare but valuable for specialists.

Hiring Trend: The market is stable, not explosive. New positions open due to retirements or expansion, not sudden booms. Networking at local events like the Wyoming Physical Therapy Association (WYPTA) conference is more effective than cold applications.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming’s licensing is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The Wyoming State Board of Physical Therapy (a division of the Wyoming Department of Administration & Information) oversees it.

Requirements:

1. Education: Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program.
2. Exams: Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
3. Jurisprudence: Pass the Wyoming Jurisprudence Exam (a free, online test on state laws).
4. Background Check: Fingerprint-based criminal history check.
5. Application: Submit the application through the Wyoming State Board website with fees.

Costs & Timeline:

• NPTE Fee: $485 per attempt.
• Wyoming Application Fee: $150 (initial license).
• Background Check: ~$50.
• Total Initial Cost: ~$685 (excluding exam prep).

Timeline:

• To Apply: You can apply for a "License by Examination" as soon as you graduate.
• Processing: The Board typically processes applications within 4-6 weeks after receiving all documents and exam scores.
• Total Time (from graduation to license): 2-4 months, assuming you pass the NPTE on the first try.

Insider Tip: Wyoming is a member of the PT Compact. If you already hold a license in another compact state (like Colorado, Utah, or Montana), you can get a Wyoming license much faster, often in a matter of days. This is a huge advantage for relocating PTs.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Sheridan’s neighborhoods cater to different lifestyles. Commutes are short (10-15 minutes max) anywhere in town, but your choice affects your day-to-day experience.

1. Downtown Sheridan: Walkable, historic, and lively. You’re close to the WYO Theater, restaurants, and the bustling Main Street. Perfect for a younger PT or someone who loves being in the heart of the action. Rent (1BR): $900 - $1,100/month.
2. North Sheridan / The Heights: Family-oriented, with newer subdivisions, good schools, and easy access to King Park. A quick commute to hospitals and clinics. Rent (1BR): $850 - $950/month.
3. South Side / Historic District: Quaint, older homes with character. Quiet streets, but just a few minutes from downtown. Great for those who want peace without isolation. Rent (1BR): $800 - $900/month.
4. The Ranches (East of Town): For those who want space. Larger lots, horse properties, and a true Western feel. A 10-15 minute drive to everything. Rent (1BR): $750 - $900/month (often a shared house or apartment).
5. Sheridan College Area: Popular with younger professionals and those who want to be near the college's amenities (library, events). A mix of student and professional housing. Rent (1BR): $800 - $1,000/month.

Insider Tip: The rental market moves fast. For the best places, connect with local realtors (like Coldwell Banker or The Property Exchange) who handle rentals, or check local Facebook groups. Don't wait for online listings.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the base salary is steady, your earning potential in Sheridan depends on specialization and taking on leadership roles.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest income boost comes from certification. A Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) or Sports Certified Specialist (SCS) can add a 10-15% premium to your salary, especially at Advocate or Big Horn PT. Pelvic health specialists are in high demand and can often name their rate for private practice.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Clinical Track: Staff PT → Senior PT → Clinic Director (e.g., at Advocate or a private practice). This path adds management duties and a higher salary.
  2. Specialist Track: Generalist → Certified Specialist → Clinic Owner or Consultant. This is ideal for those who want to build a niche practice.
  3. Academia/Research: With Sheridan College’s growing allied health programs, there are occasional opportunities for adjunct teaching or clinical education.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 14% job growth is solid. The aging population in Sheridan (a common theme in Wyoming) ensures steady demand. The key to long-term growth here is building a reputation. Word-of-mouth is powerful. Patients will request you specifically if you provide excellent care, leading to more referrals and potential for a higher income or private practice.

Insider Tip: Consider getting involved with the Wyoming Physical Therapy Association (WYPTA). Serving on the board or volunteering at continuing education events builds your network across the state, opening doors to opportunities in other cities if you ever want to move.

The Verdict: Is Sheridan Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary stretches dramatically.	Limited Job Market: Only 38 PT jobs in the metro area. You may need to start in a less-than-ideal role.
Outdoor Access: World-class hiking, fishing, and hunting minutes from your door.	Isolation: 2+ hours to a major airport (Billings or Denver). Fewer cultural events than big cities.
Tight-Knit Community: You’ll know your patients and colleagues personally.	Professional Networks: Smaller, so specialization can be harder to pursue without travel.
No State Income Tax: Significant boost to net worth.	Population Growth: Slow and steady, not booming. Career advancement may require patience.
Easy Commutes & Safe Environment: Ideal for raising a family.	Weather: Winters are long, cold, and can be isolating for those unaccustomed to it.

Final Recommendation:
Sheridan is an excellent choice for a Physical Therapist who prioritizes lifestyle, outdoor recreation, and financial stability over high-energy city life. It’s ideal for mid-career professionals looking to buy a home, start a family, or slow down. If you’re a new grad, it’s a great place to build foundational experience, but be prepared to network aggressively. If your career goals involve cutting-edge research or working at a massive trauma center, look elsewhere. For the PT who wants to run a clinic, hike after work, and build a life without financial stress, Sheridan is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. What’s the job search like for a PT moving to Sheridan?
It’s not a "click-apply" market. Many jobs are filled through networking and referrals. Your best bet is to contact clinics directly (call and ask for the Clinic Director), connect with the WYPTA, and check the hospital’s career page weekly. Be open to starting in home health or a satellite clinic to get your foot in the door.

2. How is the work-life balance?
Generally excellent. Most clinics operate standard business hours (8-5, M-F). Weekends are rare unless you choose a home health or weekend PRN role. The low commute and lack of "big city" pressures mean you can truly leave work at work. The outdoor lifestyle naturally encourages balance.

3. What are the continuing education requirements and options?
Wyoming requires 30 CEUs every 2 years. The challenge is finding live courses locally. Most PTs attend the annual WYPTA conference (held in Cheyenne or Casper) or drive to Billings, MT (2 hours) or Denver, CO (4 hours) for larger seminars. Online courses are the norm. Budget $1,000-$2,000/year for CEUs and travel.

4. Is it feasible for a dual-career household?
Sheridan’s economy is not diverse. The other major employers are in education, healthcare, and energy. If your partner is in tech, finance, or a specialized field, remote work is likely necessary. It’s doable but requires research on internet reliability (fiber is available in town) and job market satisfaction for your partner.

5. What’s the most surprising part of practicing PT in Sheridan?
The relationships. You’ll treat three generations of the same family. Your patients are your neighbors. This can be incredibly rewarding but also means you have no anonymity. The care you provide is deeply personal, and your reputation is your most valuable asset. It’s a different, more intimate kind of practice than in a large city.