Ann Arbor vs Dearborn: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Dearborn, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Dearborn, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,612▲ | $104,959 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.71▲ | $50.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,956▲ | $80,888 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,359▲ | $86,842 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,442 | $126,658▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,134 | $142,274▲ |
| Total Employed | 570▲ | 19 |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Dearborn.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Dearborn is $4,653 (4.43%). Ann Arbor's median is +4.11% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $41,178,Dearborn spans $61,386. Dearborn 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, Dearborn ($112,617 effective) pays 3.65% more than Ann Arbor ($108,656 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,612/year)
- ✓Larger job market (570 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Dearborn if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($142,274)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,617)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Ann Arbor grew 21.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.9% growth in Dearborn over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$87,910 (2019) → $106,980 (2025)
Dearborn, MI
$86,155 (2024) → $102,439 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Dearborn, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Ann Arbor or Dearborn?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ann Arbor and Dearborn?
Should I relocate from Ann Arbor to Dearborn as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Ann Arbor vs Dearborn?
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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