Physiotherapist vs Chemical Engineer
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Chemical Engineer earns 25% more than Physiotherapist
Median R 50 000/month vs R 40 000/month — a R 10 000/month difference
Physiotherapist
R 480 000/year
82% above SA workforce median
Chemical Engineer
R 600 000/year
127% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Physiotherapist | Chemical Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 26 000 | R 25 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 40 000 | R 50 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 62 000 | R 82 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
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.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical engineers with mining, water treatment, and green hydrogen expertise are especially sought after as SA transitions its energy and industrial base.
See your actual take-home pay
Enter any gross salary to calculate PAYE, UIF, and net pay after deductions.
Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Physiotherapist or a Chemical Engineer in South Africa?▾
A Chemical Engineer earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Chemical Engineer is R 50 000/month, compared to R 40 000/month for a Physiotherapist — a difference of R 10 000/month (25% higher).
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.
What is the Chemical Engineer salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Chemical Engineer salary in South Africa is R 50 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 20 000–R 32 000/month, mid-level pays R 38 000–R 65 000/month, and senior roles pay R 65 000–R 110 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Physiotherapist or Chemical Engineer?▾
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.