Respiratory Therapist salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Respiratory Therapist in South Africa is approximately 155,602 ZAR (7,772 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Respiratory Therapist do?

A respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in providing respiratory care to patients with breathing disorders or conditions. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with respiratory illnesses such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and respiratory distress syndrome. Respiratory therapists are responsible for conducting diagnostic tests, such as pulmonary function tests and arterial blood gas analysis, to evaluate a patient's lung capacity and oxygen levels. They also administer treatments and therapies, including oxygen therapy, aerosol medications, and mechanical ventilation, to help patients improve their respiratory function. In addition to patient care, respiratory therapists educate patients and their families on managing respiratory conditions, provide emergency care during life-threatening situations, and participate in the development of respiratory care plans. They may work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and home healthcare.

Skills: respiratory therapist, healthcare professional, breathing disorders, respiratory care, pulmonary function tests, oxygen therapy
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Respiratory Therapist make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Respiratory Therapist a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Respiratory Therapist is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Respiratory Therapist?

High salary for Respiratory Therapist would be somewhere between 171,162 ZAR and 225,623 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Respiratory Therapist in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 155,602 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 12,967 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,992 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 75 ZAR per hour
By working as Respiratory Therapist a person can save up to 376 USD per month or 4,518 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Respiratory Therapist

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

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