In recent years, the growing demand for respiratory therapists has brought this vital profession into the spotlight. From critical care to outpatient support, respiratory therapists provide essential respiratory care to patients of all ages. With the increasing prevalence of chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD, asthma, and pneumonia, as well as the long-term effects of respiratory diseases like COVID-19, the need for skilled professionals in this field has never been greater. If you're an aspiring or experienced healthcare professional looking for stability, career growth, and the chance to impact lives, a career in respiratory therapy may be the path for you.
This blog explores the job outlook for respiratory therapists, career paths, education and certification requirements, and how to stay competitive in today’s job market.
Job Outlook and Demand for Respiratory Therapists in 2025
The employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 13 percent from 2023 to 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), much faster than the average for all occupations.
Regions and Work Settings with the Highest Demand
Respiratory therapists are in high demand across the U.S., particularly in states like California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Ohio—regions with large healthcare infrastructures and aging populations. Major metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles, Houston, New York City, and Chicago offer abundant job openings for respiratory therapists.
Work settings where respiratory therapists typically find employment include:
- Hospitals (especially ICUs and emergency departments)
- Outpatient clinics
- Long-term care and rehabilitation facilities
- Home healthcare
- Sleep disorder centers
- Air and ground transport units
Key Factors Driving the High Demand for Respiratory Therapists
Aging Population
Older adults are more prone to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and heart failure, which significantly increases the need for respiratory care.
Rise in Chronic Respiratory Conditions
Millions of Americans live with asthma, COPD, and other chronic respiratory conditions. Respiratory therapists educate patients and manage these long-term illnesses.
Lasting Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of respiratory care. Many survivors face prolonged respiratory complications requiring extended therapy, maintaining a steady demand for respiratory specialists.
Environmental and Lifestyle Influences
Factors such as air pollution, smoking, and occupational hazards contribute to respiratory problems, boosting the need for professional care.
Expansion of Care Settings
Respiratory therapists are increasingly employed in outpatient clinics, home healthcare, and community programs, widening job opportunities beyond traditional hospital roles.
Advancements in Technology
New technologies in respiratory care, including ventilators and telehealth, demand therapists who are technologically adept, further increasing the profession’s relevance.
Workforce Replacement Needs
Many current respiratory therapists are approaching retirement, creating substantial replacement demand that sustains job growth.
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in 2025
To become a respiratory therapist, individuals must complete education, certification, and licensing requirements. Here's a streamlined pathway:
Education
Start by earning either an associate’s degree in respiratory therapy or a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy from a Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) accredited program.
Certification
Upon graduation, you must pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). To advance, take the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) exams a requirement for most clinical roles.
Licensure
Respiratory therapists are required to obtain a state licensure, with requirements varying by location. Licensure usually mandates completion of an accredited program and NBRC certification
Continuing Education
To maintain licensure and remain competitive, therapists must complete continuing education and stay current with advancements in respiratory therapy, including telehealth and portable technologies.
Respiratory Therapist Specialties, Career Advancement, and Salary Insights
Specialties
Respiratory therapists may choose from several specialties, depending on their interests and clinical setting. In-demand specializations include:
- Neonatal and Pediatric Care: Working in NICUs to treat premature infants and children with underdeveloped lungs.
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Helping patients with chronic lung conditions regain function and quality of life.
- Sleep Medicine: Performing and analyzing sleep studies to treat disorders like sleep apnea.
- Travel Respiratory Therapy: Filling temporary positions in high-demand regions, often with higher compensation.
Career Advancement
Career advancement is tied to education and credentials. Therapists typically begin with CRT and move on to RRT status. Those with a bachelor’s degree can pursue supervisory, teaching, or research roles. Some become clinical educators or transition into administrative or policy-making positions.
Salary Insights
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for respiratory therapists is approximately $80,450 (May 2024). However, earnings vary depending on the work environment:
- Hospitals: Median salary around $99,010
- Outpatient Care Centers: Median salary about $106,230
- Top-paying states: California, Hawaii, and the District of Columbia report average salaries exceeding $120,000
Staying Competitive in the Job Market
To excel in the field of respiratory therapy, whether you are starting or seeking advancement, consider the following:
- Enhance Your Education: Employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy.
- Gain Advanced Certifications: Specializations and credentials such as neonatal/pediatric respiratory care or sleep disorder testing improve job prospects.
- Master New Technologies: Familiarity with advanced ventilators, electronic health records, and telehealth platforms is essential.
- Build Strong Soft Skills: Communication, empathy, and teamwork are crucial for delivering excellent patient care.
- Target High-Demand Areas: Apply to regions with workforce shortages or explore travel respiratory therapist opportunities.
Conclusion
As the healthcare industry evolves, the role of respiratory therapists remains central to patient care, particularly for those suffering from chronic respiratory conditions. The job outlook for respiratory therapists is bright, supported by a strong projected job growth rate, attractive salaries, and a wide array of specialties.
Whether you're considering how to become a respiratory therapist or looking to advance your role as a registered respiratory therapist, the opportunities in this field are expansive and meaningful. With the right credentials, continued education, and a commitment to excellence, you can thrive in this high-demand, impactful healthcare profession.
Looking to Advance Your Career in Respiratory Therapy?
Verovian Allied Health Professional Recruitment Agency connects skilled respiratory therapists to top job opportunities across the U.S. From hospitals to home care, we support both entry-level and experienced professionals. Register today to explore job openings tailored to your expertise and goals.
