Amsterdam vs Rochester: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Amsterdam, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Amsterdam, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,115▲ | $85,114 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.32▲ | $40.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,309▲ | $67,695 |
| 25th Percentile | $79,738▲ | $78,700 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,030▲ | $100,103 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,245 | $115,513▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 1,140▲ |
Verdict
Amsterdam and Rochester are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Amsterdam and Rochester is $5,001 (5.88%). Amsterdam's median is -14.41% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Amsterdam spans $31,936,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, Rochester ($87,715 effective) pays 12.81% more than Amsterdam ($77,752 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Amsterdam if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,115/year)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($115,513)
- ✓Larger job market (1,140 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,715)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Amsterdam grew -20.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 8.9% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Amsterdam, NY
$110,587 (2024) → $87,951 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$76,270 (2019) → $83,070 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Amsterdam, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Amsterdam or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Amsterdam and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Amsterdam to Rochester as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Amsterdam vs Rochester?
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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