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Paying Off Student Loans as a Traveling Physical Therapist

Madison Gregg Physical Therapy

How travel therapy can help you earn more, spend less, and reach your goals faster 

If you’re a physical therapist with big financial goals, travel therapy can be an incredible way to reach them faster. With competitive pay and the freedom to explore lower-cost destinations, travel PTs are uniquely positioned to build financial stability while doing what they love. Every new assignment isn’t just a chance to grow your career—it’s a step toward greater freedom, flexibility, and the future you’ve been working for. 

Higher Pay = Bigger Loan Payments 

One of the biggest perks of travel therapy is the pay. Travel PTs often earn significantly more than their permanent counterparts, thanks to competitive hourly rates. That extra income can make a huge difference when it comes to student loans. Instead of just making minimum payments, you can throw extra toward the principal each month—cutting down on interest and shaving years off your repayment timeline. Some travel therapists even set a goal to pay off their loans within a few years by living lean and putting the bulk of their earnings toward debt. It’s not always glamorous, but it’s incredibly effective. 

Living Where It’s Cheaper

Another smart move? Choosing assignments in areas with a lower cost of living. Think rural towns, smaller cities, or regions where rent and groceries don’t eat up half your paycheck. Some travel PTs even take it a step further—renting a room instead of a whole apartment, staying with family or friends when possible, or using short-term housing platforms to find budget-friendly options. The less you spend on living expenses, the more you can save (or pay off). And don’t worry—you’re not sacrificing fun. Many smaller towns have hidden gems: hiking trails, local festivals, cozy coffee shops, and welcoming communities. You might be surprised how much you enjoy the slower pace while your bank account speeds up. 

Building a Financial Strategy That Works for You

Travel therapy gives you flexibility—not just in location, but in lifestyle. You can take assignments that align with your financial goals, whether that’s aggressive loan repayment, saving for a house, or just building a cushion for the future. Some PTs use their time traveling to live frugally and pay off debt fast. Others balance repayment with travel adventures, budgeting for weekend trips and experiences while still making progress. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and that’s the beauty of it. You can also use this time to build good financial habits: tracking expenses, setting savings goals, and learning how to manage money in a way that supports your long-term dreams. Find more information on budgeting as a travel physical therapist in our blog “Managing Money as a Travel Therapist.” 

 

Student loans don’t have to define your career. As a travel PT, you have the tools to take control—earning more, spending less, and building a lifestyle that supports your goals. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep into repayment, travel therapy can be a powerful way to turn your financial stress into financial progress. 

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