Respiratory Therapist Careers in Florida
Respiratory therapists evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders or cardiopulmonary diseases. They work in hospitals with critically ill patients on ventilators as well as outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation settings. This is one of FL's fastest-growing allied health careers with 21% projected FL growth through 2032.
What does a Respiratory Therapist do in Florida?
Respiratory therapists evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders or cardiopulmonary diseases. They work in hospitals with critically ill patients on ventilators as well as outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation settings. This is one of FL's fastest-growing allied health careers with 21% projected FL growth through 2032.
Typical Florida work setting: Hospital.
Florida salary and job outlook
Estimated Florida median pay for Respiratory Therapist is approximately $79,710 per year. Entry-level Florida pay typically starts near $62,940, with experienced workers earning around $98,890.
Florida’s projected growth for this occupation is approximately 21% through the next decade — well above average compared to many other states.
Estimated figures based on publicly reported Florida and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Actual pay varies by employer, metro area, experience, and credentials.
How to become a Respiratory Therapist in Florida
- 1. Choose an accredited Florida programLook for a Florida program that prepares you for the RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) via NBRC required to work as a Respiratory Therapist. Public technical colleges and state colleges are typically the lowest-cost option; private career schools tend to cost more but may finish faster.
- 2. Complete the trainingMost Florida Respiratory Therapist programs take about 2 years (Associate of Science). Plan around your work and family schedule — many programs offer day, evening, or hybrid options.
- 3. Apply for Florida jobsFlorida employers across the state hire entry-level Respiratory Therapists year-round. Use our Florida school directory to find programs with strong job-placement support and Florida employer relationships.
Requirements & Training
- Credential: RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) via NBRC
- Typical program length: 2 years (Associate of Science)
- Typical tuition range: $8,000 - $25,000
Career Path
- Staff RT
- Senior RT/Lead Therapist
- NICU/ICU Specialist
- Clinical Educator/Supervisor
- Director of Respiratory Care
Top Florida Employers
Related Programs to Look For
- Respiratory Care AS
- Respiratory Therapy AS
Florida Respiratory Therapist FAQs
Do I need a Florida license to work as a Respiratory Therapist?
Most Respiratory Therapist roles in Florida do not require a state license to start, though employers often prefer candidates who have completed an accredited training program and earned a recognized credential.
How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist in Florida?
Most Florida training programs for Respiratory Therapist take about 2 years (Associate of Science). Part-time, evening, and hybrid schedules can extend that timeline; accelerated programs may shorten it.
How much does Respiratory Therapist training cost in Florida?
Typical Florida programs run about $8,000 - $25,000. Public technical and state colleges are usually the lowest-cost route. Financial aid, employer reimbursement, and payment plans are widely available.
What is the average salary for a Respiratory Therapist in Florida?
Estimated Florida median pay for Respiratory Therapists is about $79,710 per year. Entry-level pay is typically lower, and experienced workers in high-demand metros (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville) can earn meaningfully more.
Where can I study to become a Respiratory Therapist in Florida?
Florida has hundreds of public technical colleges, state colleges, and private career schools that offer training relevant to Respiratory Therapist. Use our Florida school directory to filter by region, cost, and accreditation.
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