Respiratory Therapist Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Atlanta, Georgia$69,525 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Respiratory Therapist Jobs in Atlanta

Looking for a Respiratory Therapist job in Atlanta? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Respiratory Therapist in Atlanta, GA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Atlanta has a strong job market for Respiratory Therapists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Atlanta

Entry Level
$48,153
Median
$69,525
Senior Level
$94,760

Respiratory Therapist salaries in Atlanta are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Atlanta is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Respiratory CareVentilator ManagementPatient AssessmentEmergency ResponseDocumentation

Respiratory Therapist Job Market in Atlanta

Atlanta, GA is a major regional employment hub for Respiratory Therapist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Atlanta offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Technology and Finance sectors create robust demand for Respiratory Therapist talent. The market for Respiratory Therapist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Respiratory Therapists in Atlanta

Emory HealthcareWellStarPiedmont HealthcareGrady Health

Major employers hiring Respiratory Therapists in Atlanta include Emory Healthcare, WellStar, Piedmont Healthcare, Grady Health. With major hospital systems and research institutions, Atlanta offers excellent opportunities for healthcare professionals at all career stages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Respiratory Therapists in Atlanta

Living in Atlanta as a Respiratory Therapist means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Housing costs are manageable for Respiratory Therapist salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,300/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

103
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Respiratory Therapist in Atlanta

Atlanta MARTA rail and bus system; primarily car-dependent. The average commute time is 28 minutes. MARTA connects airport to downtown and Midtown. Traffic on I-285 and I-85 is severe during rush hour. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Respiratory Therapists in Atlanta: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Respiratory Therapist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Georgia

Georgia has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Respiratory Therapists

The job outlook for Respiratory Therapists in Atlanta is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Atlanta's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Respiratory Care, Ventilator Management, Patient Assessment, Emergency Response.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Respiratory Therapist salary in Atlanta, GA?

The average Respiratory Therapist salary in Atlanta, GA is $69,525 per year. Entry-level Respiratory Therapists typically start around $48,153, while experienced professionals can earn $94,760 or more. The national average for Respiratory Therapist roles is $67,500.

How many Respiratory Therapist jobs are available in Atlanta?

Atlanta has a strong job market with regular openings for Respiratory Therapist professionals. Major employers hiring Respiratory Therapists include Emory Healthcare, WellStar, Piedmont Healthcare, Grady Health. The Technology and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Atlanta a good city for Respiratory Therapists?

Atlanta is an excellent choice for Respiratory Therapists. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Respiratory Therapists in Atlanta?

Top skills for Respiratory Therapists in Atlanta include Respiratory Care, Ventilator Management, Patient Assessment, Emergency Response, Documentation. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Respiratory Therapists in Atlanta?

Atlanta's cost of living is near the national average (103% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Atlanta is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Respiratory Therapists in Atlanta?

Atlanta MARTA rail and bus system; primarily car-dependent. The average commute is 28 minutes. MARTA connects airport to downtown and Midtown.

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