It’s one of those questions people ask right after the doctor says, “You’ll need physical therapy.” The first thought isn’t about exercises or stretches — it’s about money. How much does physical therapy cost? And honestly, the answer feels slippery. Sometimes you hear $75, sometimes $200, and in New York it might be even higher. The truth is, the price depends on a handful of things that most patients don’t find out until they’re already sitting in the clinic waiting room.
I’ve talked to folks who said they were shocked when the bill came in. Others told me they were pleasantly surprised that their insurance covered most of it. The contrast is huge. Let’s untangle it a bit.
What Decides the Price of PT?
Several pieces come together here:
Where you live. A big city like New York is going to cost more than a small town clinic.
Type of care. A hospital-based program, a boutique sports therapy studio, or a home-visit service like Luna — all come with their own price tags.
Insurance or no insurance. This is the big divider. With coverage, the bill might be small. Without it, things get heavy fast.
Your specific needs. A simple sprained ankle is one thing. Post-surgery rehab for your back? That’s longer, more complex, and pricier.
Without Insurance
So let’s start with the tough one: how much does physical therapy cost without insurance? On average, you’re looking at $75 to $150 a session across the U.S. If you’re unlucky enough to be in a major metro, it can be more.
That doesn’t sound too bad until you realize you might need two or three visits per week for several months. Suddenly, you’re staring at bills in the thousands. Some clinics cut deals if you buy sessions in bulk, but it’s still a financial load.
With Insurance
Now, how much does physical therapy cost with insurance? This is where things get lighter. Many insurance plans bring it down to a $20–$50 copay per visit. Some policies even cover unlimited sessions, though most cap you at a certain number per year.
Of course, nothing in healthcare is ever that simple. Sometimes your plan covers only “medically necessary” rehab — like after surgery — but won’t cover performance or preventative therapy. That’s why it’s smart to check with your provider before you start. Still, compared to paying full price, having coverage is a huge relief.
The NYC Price Tag
Now here’s the question locals ask: how much does a physical therapy session cost in NYC? Honestly… brace yourself. In Manhattan especially, it’s usually $125 to $200 per visit if you don’t have insurance.
Why so high? Rent, salaries, demand — all the usual New York reasons. You might find lower prices in the outer boroughs, but Manhattan private clinics often charge top rates. The flip side? You also get access to some of the best therapists in the country, treating Broadway dancers, athletes, and patients from every background.
Related Article: Physical Therapy Salary Trends
Luna Physical Therapy
And then there’s Luna. How much does Luna physical therapy cost? It’s a different model — therapists come to your home. If you’re insured, Luna bills your plan and you just pay the normal copay. If you’re paying out of pocket, it’s often $70–$150 per session, depending on your location.
The appeal is obvious: no subway rides, no parking hassles, no waiting rooms. Just a therapist showing up at your door. Some people swear it’s worth the slightly higher end of the range simply for the convenience.
Making PT More Affordable
So what do you do if you need PT but your wallet is screaming? A few practical tricks help:
Ask if the clinic offers bundle discounts — paying for 10 or 20 sessions upfront often lowers the per-session cost.
Stick to the home exercise plan your therapist gives you — fewer visits if you stay on track between sessions.
Compare clinics in your area. Prices can swing a lot more than you think.
And of course, double-check your insurance policy. Sometimes people don’t realize PT is covered until they ask.
Related Article: Sports Physicals for Free
Wrapping It Up — How Much Does Physical Therapy Cost?
At the end of the day, how much does physical therapy cost depends on where you are, whether you’ve got insurance, and the kind of therapy you need. Without insurance, $75–$150 is the usual ballpark. In NYC, it climbs closer to $200. With insurance, most patients are looking at a simple copay. Luna, the at-home service, lands in a similar range but adds the comfort of care delivered straight to your living room.
Yes, it can be expensive. But if you think about what’s at stake — walking without pain, recovering from surgery, getting back to normal life — the investment makes sense. The real cost is what happens if you skip it.
Related Article: Is Pelvic Floor Therapy Covered by Insurance
FAQ
How much does physical therapy cost without insurance?
Usually $75–$150 per session, sometimes higher in big cities.
How much does physical therapy cost with insurance?
Most patients pay $20–$50 per session as a copay.
How much does a physical therapy session cost in NYC?
Typically $125–$200 without insurance.
How much does Luna physical therapy cost?
Around $70–$150 self-pay, or just your copay if your plan covers it.