Top States Hiring New Grad PTs and OTs in 2025
Starting your career as a new grad in physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), or allied health is an exciting but pivotal moment. One of the most critical decisions you'll make is deciding where to begin your professional path. Understanding which states are actively hiring and offer abundant opportunities, competitive pay, and supportive environments for skill development can give you the head start you need.
If you’re looking to build your clinical skills or expand your career options in 2025, this guide will walk you through the top states that are hiring new grad PTs, OTs, and allied health professionals based on emerging job trends and labor market projections.
Why Location Matters for New Grad Healthcare Roles
Launching your career in the right location can profoundly impact your professional growth. Some states are not only in high demand for new graduates but also offer excellent mentorship programs, access to diverse patient populations, support for advanced learning, and competitive salaries.
Figuring out where you’ll thrive comes down to understanding the job market, opportunities to develop must-have PT and OT clinical skills, and how the workplace supports your overall career goals.
Below, we’ve highlighted the top states to consider if you want to land the perfect first job and begin building a fulfilling healthcare career.
California
California remains a hotspot for healthcare professionals across all disciplines, including physical and occupational therapy. The state’s large population ensures consistent demand for new graduates to fill roles in rehabilitation clinics, hospitals, and outpatient centers.
Why California?
- High patient volumes allow new grads to practice essential clinical skills for physical therapists, such as manual therapy, functional assessments, and patient education.
- Access to mentorship programs and CEU (continuing education unit) initiatives to deepen practical knowledge.
- Competitive salaries, often well above the national average, make it easier to offset the cost of living.
If you’re eager to immerse yourself in diverse case studies, California's robust job market makes it a top choice.
Texas
Texas is expanding its healthcare infrastructure, leading to increased job openings for allied health professionals, PTs, and OTs alike. The state's rapid population growth, especially in cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas, drives the demand for professionals with a mix of technical expertise and compassionate care.
Why Texas?
- A wide range of opportunities in rehabilitation, acute care, and long-term care facilities.
- Many employers feature structured onboarding for new grads to master PT skills not taught in school, such as interdisciplinary collaboration and telehealth practices.
- A relatively lower cost of living compared to other major states ensures a higher quality of life for new professionals.
Florida
Florida’s retiring population creates a constant need for skilled therapists and allied health practitioners in both rural and urban areas. New grads looking to refine their craft with older demographics will find plenty of positions tailored to their expertise.
Why Florida?
- High availability of entry-level jobs for physical and occupational therapists, particularly in geriatrics and neuro-rehabilitation.
- Ample opportunities to strengthen clinical skills for physical therapists, including balance training, mobility improvement, and strength restoration.
- Warm weather and lifestyle benefits appeal to many new graduates.
New York
New York offers an unmatched variety of healthcare settings, from high-paced urban hospitals to smaller community clinics. The state is renowned for its emphasis on quality patient care, providing new professionals with mentorship opportunities and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Why New York?
- Opportunities to work in specialized fields, such as pediatrics, orthopedics, and cardiopulmonary care.
- Exposure to culturally diverse patients hones communication and adaptability skills, valuable must-have PT skills for new grads.
- Access to top-tier healthcare networks and professional events that boost visibility and career progression.
North Carolina
North Carolina boasts thriving healthcare systems and a steadily growing demand for rehabilitation-based professionals. With a mix of rural and urban healthcare needs, this state provides the perfect environment to practice essential PT skills while gaining diverse experience.
Why North Carolina?
- Many facilities invest in advanced equipment, allowing new grads to explore innovative therapeutic techniques.
- Openings in home health and outpatient clinics complement hospital-based roles.
- A focus on work-life balance ensures that new professionals feel supported.
See Also5 Big Mistakes to Avoid as a New Grad Therapist
Start Your Healthcare Career with Ease
Whether you’re looking for rapid career development or opportunities to refine your clinical skills, the right state can make all the difference in shaping your future as a healthcare professional. Aligning your goals with the job market trends in growing states like California, Texas, and Florida ensures that you’ll excel in an environment that nurtures both personal and professional growth.
Not sure where to begin? AMN Healthcare connects new grad PTs, OTs, and allied health pros with top-tier job opportunities across the country. Click here to explore available positions and take the first step toward an amazing career today!
