Thinking about launching your own physical therapy practice, but not sure what it takes financially? You’re not alone. One of the biggest questions future clinic owners ask is: “How much does it cost to open a PT clinic?”
Here are the most common concerns:
Starting a clinic can feel overwhelming, but here’s the good news: once you understand the financial landscape, the process becomes much clearer. Knowing what to expect, from startup fees to ongoing costs, is the first step toward turning your vision into reality.
Keep reading for a full breakdown of what opening a physical therapy clinic costs.
Download Free eGuide: How to Fund Your Physical Therapy Practice
The cost of starting a physical therapy clinic can vary widely based on factors such as location, size, and specialty services. However, most new clinics share a set of common start-up expenses you’ll want to plan for.
Before opening your doors, you’ll need to factor in business permits and licensing fees. These costs vary significantly depending on your state and local regulations.
For example:
Every state (and sometimes each county or city) has its own requirements for business licenses, health permits, or professional registrations. Your state clerk’s office (or local small business authority) can provide the most accurate list of permits you’ll need—and the exact costs.
Don’t forget about renewal fees—many licenses must be updated annually.
5 Things to Consider When Opening a Cash-Based Physical Therapy Practice
Every physical therapy clinic must carry insurance coverage before opening. The right plans protect you from lawsuits, accidents, and professional risks.
The two most common types are:
General Liability Insurance
Covers physical risks (e.g., a patient slips in your clinic).
Average cost: about $42/month
Professional Liability Insurance
(Errors & Omissions) – Protects against claims of negligence, mistakes, or inadequate care.
Average cost: about $59/month
Before purchasing a plan, consult with a healthcare attorney. They can help you weigh each policy's advantages, exclusions, and long-term protections.
Your clinic's equipment needs will depend on its size, services, and specialty. Before you buy, define your treatment niche—whether it’s general outpatient PT, sports rehab, balance therapy, or another focus.
Here are some common baseline costs for PT equipment:
You may even need to purchase several ultrasound muscle stimulators, which sell for around $3,600.
FREE ON-DEMAND WEBINAR: How to Start a Physical Therapy Practice
One of the biggest expenses for a new physical therapy clinic is space. Your costs will vary based on:
While downtown space gives you visibility, suburban locations often provide lower rent with steady patient demand. The best option balances affordability with accessibility for your patients.
Technology is no longer optional—it’s essential. While you could manage tasks manually, you’ll quickly run into inefficiencies and compliance risks without the right software. A physical therapy clinic typically needs several types of software to operate smoothly:
Look for all-in-one platforms that combine EMR, billing, and scheduling. This reduces costs, improves efficiency, and eliminates duplicate data entry.
Open a FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center Clinic: Investment Breakdown, Funding Options, and More...
After calculating your start-up costs, the next step is figuring out how to pay for them. Most new clinic owners use a mix of personal funds and financing options. Here are some of the most common:
Explore FYZICAL Franchise Opportunities: See how we simplify funding, planning, and growth.
If you choose bank financing, be prepared to present a detailed business plan with financial projections, licensing, and compliance documents. The process can take time, but it will set you up for long-term stability.
Opening your first physical therapy practice is a huge milestone—but navigating funding, territory selection, and long-term planning can feel overwhelming. That’s where FYZICAL comes in.
We provide guidance on:
Visit our website to learn more about starting a physical therapy business, and download our free e-book on securing funding for your clinic.
Still weighing your options? Check out FYZICAL’s Partnership Advantage Program—a unique model that pairs licensed PTs with well-funded entrepreneurs to launch and grow clinics together. It’s an alternative pathway to clinic ownership that reduces risk while maximizing opportunity.
Starting a physical therapy clinic is both an exciting opportunity and a serious investment. The costs can feel overwhelming at first, from permits and equipment to rent, staffing, and funding, but with the right plan, the rewards can be substantial.
Whether you’re a licensed PT ready to step into ownership or an entrepreneur looking to enter the healthcare space, understanding the economics is the first step. The next step? Partnering with a proven system that’s already helped hundreds of owners succeed.
Check your territory today to get started!
People Also Ask:
How Much Does a Physical Therapist Make
How to Build a Physical Therapy Practice Your Competitors Will Be Jealous Of
See Why FYZICAL is a Top Low-Cost Franchise
FREE FYZICAL Resources For You:
The Investment Opportunity Guide
The Physical Therapy Industry Report
More FYZICAL Resources