Albany vs Rochester: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Albany, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albany, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,333▲ | $85,114 |
| Hourly Rate | $46.31▲ | $40.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,880▲ | $67,695 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,122▲ | $78,700 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,974▲ | $100,103 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,179 | $115,513▲ |
| Total Employed | 790 | 1,140▲ |
Verdict
Albany and Rochester are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Albany and Rochester is $11,219 (13.18%). Albany's median is -8.51% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albany spans $38,299,Rochester spans $47,818. Rochester has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced physical therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Albany ($96,753 effective) pays 10.30% more than Rochester ($87,715 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albany if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($96,333/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,753)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($115,513)
- ✓Larger job market (1,140 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Albany grew 19.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.9% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Albany, NY
$78,460 (2019) → $94,020 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$76,270 (2019) → $83,070 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albany, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Albany or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Albany and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Albany to Rochester as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Albany vs Rochester?
Related Comparisons
Written by Alex Morgan, DPT
Career Analyst
Alex Morgan has over 10 years of experience in physical therapy. They specialize in orthopedic rehabilitation. Alex works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.46% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Alex Morgan, DPT, a licensed physical therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov