Ann Arbor vs Pontiac: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Pontiac, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Pontiac, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,612▲ | $100,562 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.71▲ | $48.35 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,956▲ | $75,922 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,359▲ | $83,888 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,442 | $117,657▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,134 | $129,989▲ |
| Total Employed | 570▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Pontiac.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Pontiac is $9,050 (9.00%). 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,Pontiac spans $54,067. Pontiac 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, Ann Arbor ($108,656 effective) pays 0.70% more than Pontiac ($107,899 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)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,656)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Pontiac if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,989)
- ✓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 18.5% growth in Pontiac over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$87,910 (2019) → $106,980 (2025)
Pontiac, MI
$82,798 (2024) → $98,148 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Pontiac, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Ann Arbor or Pontiac?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ann Arbor and Pontiac?
Should I relocate from Ann Arbor to Pontiac as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Ann Arbor vs Pontiac?
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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