Physical Therapy (DPT) Degree in San Francisco, CA — Salary & ROI 2026

Physical Therapy (DPT) in San Francisco, CA Overview

San Francisco is one of California's top college towns, with 22 institutions and a student population of 65,778. Public tuition averages $7,266/year here — well below the national average, making it a cost-effective choice. Physical Therapy (DPT) enrollment is stable nationwide, with steady demand for graduates skilled in . The adjusted starting salary in San Francisco is approximately $0.

Physical Therapy (DPT) Salary in San Francisco (COL-Adjusted)

Salaries adjusted for San Francisco's cost of living index of 114 (national average = 100).

Physical Therapy (DPT) ROI Calculator for San Francisco

Estimate your return on investment for a Physical Therapy (DPT) degree using local San Francisco tuition and cost of living data.

Student Loan Payoff for Physical Therapy (DPT) in San Francisco

Colleges in San Francisco for Physical Therapy (DPT)

Community Colleges (2-Year Transfer)

Top Employers for Physical Therapy (DPT) in San Francisco

San Francisco offers opportunities in Hospitals, Medical centers, Private practices for Physical Therapy (DPT) graduates. National top employers in this field include:

Key San Francisco Hiring Sectors for Healthcare

Common Physical Therapy (DPT) Job Titles

Physical Therapy (DPT) in Nearby California Cities

Other Healthcare Majors in San Francisco

Methodology & Education Data Sources

How we calculate Physical Therapy (DPT) degree outcomes in San Francisco, CA: Our salary projections, ROI estimates, and tuition data combine multiple federal datasets to provide a localized view of education economics. We use a 10-year career-trajectory model standard in higher education research.

1. Tuition data sourced from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), the federal education statistics database operated by NCES. Average tuition for Physical Therapy (DPT) programs reflects 4-year public/private weighted averages for California.
2. Career salary projections based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, with cost-of-living adjustments for San Francisco using regional CPI data.
3. 10-year ROI calculates: (Total Career Earnings With Degree) − (Total Career Earnings Without Degree) − (Total Education Cost Including Interest on Loans).
4. Job market outlook for Physical Therapy (DPT) graduates uses BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook 10-year projections (2024-2034 base period).
5. Default rates and loan data sourced from College Scorecard (US Department of Education), which tracks repayment outcomes by institution.

Authoritative US education data sources:

• IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data — official federal college data
• College Scorecard (US Dept of Education) — earnings, debt, completion rates
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Physical Therapy (DPT) career projections
• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — official US student loan and grant info
• NCES Digest of Education Statistics — comprehensive education data
• BLS Occupational Employment and Wages — entry-level salary data for Physical Therapy (DPT) grads

Education Disclaimer: Salary and ROI estimates are projections based on national and state-level averages. Individual outcomes depend on institution prestige, GPA, internships, location, network, and economic conditions. Always verify current tuition with the institution directly, and consult a financial aid counselor before taking on student loans. Use the Federal Loan Simulator to model repayment scenarios.

Reviewed by Brazora Monk · Last updated 2026 · IPEDS & BLS data current as of latest annual release

Financial Aid Resources for San Francisco Students

Beyond federal aid (FAFSA), California students have access to state-specific grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. The 2026-27 FAFSA also added a new Low Earnings Indicator (Dec 2025) flagging programs where graduates earn less than non-college peers — check your target school's status:

2026-27 FAFSA tip: The new Low Earnings Indicator flags programs where graduates earn less than non-graduates. Check this before enrolling. Speak with a NASFAA-credentialed financial aid counselor at your target school.

Physical Therapy (DPT) Degree in San Francisco — FAQ