How Much Does Physical Therapy Cost in San Diego, CA?
San Diego pricing is 32% above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, mediterranean climate conditions, and San Diego's defense-biotech-tourism economy.See our methodology
Physical Therapy Pricing in San Diego, CA
San Diego is a high-cost market where physical therapy runs about 32% above the national average. The city's defense-biotech-tourism economy supports higher wages, which translates to elevated contractor rates. With a population of 1.4M, competition among providers exists but demand keeps prices firm.
Local climate plays a direct role in physical therapy costs here. Mild year-round climate means consistent pricing without seasonal spikes.
Market-specific factors matter in San Diego: high cost of living drives premium pricing; coastal location means salt air corrosion affects roofing and exterior work.
San Diego has strict permitting requirements. Budget an additional 5-15% for permits, inspections, and code compliance when planning your physical therapy project. Licensed contractors familiar with local codes can navigate this process efficiently.
San Diego vs National Average
What Affects Physical Therapy Cost in San Diego?
Setting
Private clinic: $100-$350. Hospital-based: $150-$500. Home health: $200-$400
Insurance
With insurance: $20-$75 copay. Without: $100-$350 per session
Total Cost
Typical 12-session treatment plan: $1,200-$4,000 without insurance
San Diego Market Conditions
high cost of living drives premium pricing; coastal location means salt air corrosion affects roofing and exterior work
Local Climate Impact
mild year-round climate means consistent pricing without seasonal spikes
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Top-Rated Physical Therapy Pros in San Diego, CA
7 providersSummit Family Medicine
⭐ PREMIUMServing San Diego and surrounding areas since 2008. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.
Bright Smile Medical Center
✅ VERIFIEDValley Family Medicine
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Tips to Save on Physical Therapy in San Diego
- 1.Use in-network clinics
- 2.Ask how many sessions are covered by your plan before starting
- 3.Do prescribed home exercises to reduce total sessions needed
- 4.Consider university clinics for lower rates
- 5.In San Diego, verify your contractor handles local permits — the permitting process here is more involved than average and DIY permit applications can cause delays.
📈 Physical Therapy in San Diego Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.2% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $169 | — |
| 2021 | $176 | +4.1% |
| 2022 | $187 | +6.3% |
| 2023 | $192 | +2.7% |
| 2024 | $198 | +3.1% |
Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.
💬 What Did You Pay?
Real costs reported by homeowners for Physical Therapy in San Diego
Recent Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
How many PT sessions will I need?
Most treatment plans run 6-12 weeks with 2-3 sessions per week. Post-surgical recovery may require more.
Does insurance cover physical therapy?
Most health insurance covers PT with a referral, though plans vary in the number of sessions covered per year.
Why does physical therapy cost different in San Diego than other cities?
San Diego's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the defense-biotech-tourism economy, mediterranean climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and strict permitting requirements. The competitive labor market also influences competitive pricing.
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