Electrical Engineer vs Physiotherapist
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Electrical Engineer earns 15% more than Physiotherapist
Median R 46 000/month vs R 40 000/month — a R 6 000/month difference
Electrical Engineer
R 552 000/year
109% above SA workforce median
Physiotherapist
R 480 000/year
82% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Electrical Engineer | Physiotherapist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 23 000 | R 26 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 46 000 | R 40 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 80 000 | R 62 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Electrical Engineer
Demand for electrical engineers is surging in South Africa's renewable energy buildout, offering excellent opportunities for specialised engineers through 2030.
Physiotherapist
Growing demand driven by an ageing population, sport injury awareness, and post-surgical rehabilitation needs. NHI implementation may expand public-sector allied health posts significantly.
See your actual take-home pay
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Electrical Engineer or a Physiotherapist in South Africa?▾
A Electrical Engineer earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Electrical Engineer is R 46 000/month, compared to R 40 000/month for a Physiotherapist — a difference of R 6 000/month (15% higher).
What is the Electrical Engineer salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Electrical Engineer salary in South Africa is R 46 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 19 000–R 29 000/month, mid-level pays R 36 000–R 60 000/month, and senior roles pay R 62 000–R 105 000/month.
What is the Physiotherapist salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Physiotherapist salary in South Africa is R 40 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 22 000–R 32 000/month, mid-level pays R 32 000–R 50 000/month, and senior roles pay R 50 000–R 85 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Electrical Engineer or Physiotherapist?▾
Use the Rand Tools PAYE calculator. Enter the gross monthly salary and it will calculate your exact take-home pay after PAYE income tax, UIF (1% of gross, capped at R177.12/month), and any pension or medical aid contributions.