Entry-Level Physical Therapist Assistant Salary in Kailua, HI: $59,613 (2026)

In Kailua, employers that typically hire newly graduated physical therapist assistants include outpatient rehabilitation facilities and skilled nursing care centers (SNFs), which are known to value entry-level talent despite recent reimbursement challenges. New graduates should focus on obtaining essential credentials such as an Associate's degree from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program, passing the NPTAE national exam, and securing a state PTA license. These credentials are vital for increasing the starting physical therapist assistant salary in Kailua. Additionally, engaging in continuing education and pursuing advanced proficiency credentials through APTA can give candidates an edge in salary negotiations. Given that PTAs work under the supervision of physical therapists as mandated by state law and Medicare rules, it's crucial for new hires to understand the implications of the 15% cut to Medicare Part B reimbursement for PTA services, which could affect job growth and compensation in heavily Medicare-dependent settings. Realistically, first-year salaries may experience gradual increases but could stabilize around the 25th percentile mark before improving further as one gains experience and potentially shifts into higher-paying practice settings.