How to become respiratory therapistseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$82,280
25th–75th pct. $74,520–$98,730
Top pay (est.)
$153,500
Top 10% $118,050
Pay in 5 years
$97,300est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$115,000est.
$98,900–$133,500
Outlook score
64/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
26%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
+8.5%
8,600 openings / yr
How to become respiratory therapists
Typical education
Associate's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Respiratory Therapists
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Assisting and Caring for OthersMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsJudging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleGetting InformationCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Important abilities
Problem SensitivityOral ExpressionOral ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningInductive ReasoningWritten Comprehension
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as respiratory therapists
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.