Ann Arbor vs Sterling Heights: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Sterling Heights, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Sterling Heights, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,612▲ | $106,322 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.71▲ | $51.12 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,956▲ | $76,267 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,359▲ | $85,979 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,442 | $123,756▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,134 | $147,869▲ |
| Total Employed | 570▲ | 29 |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sterling Heights.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Sterling Heights is $3,290 (3.09%). 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,Sterling Heights spans $71,602. Sterling Heights 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, Sterling Heights ($114,079 effective) pays 4.99% 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 Sterling Heights if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($147,869)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,079)
- ✓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 Sterling Heights over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$87,910 (2019) → $106,980 (2025)
Sterling Heights, MI
$87,540 (2024) → $103,769 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Sterling Heights, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Ann Arbor or Sterling Heights?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ann Arbor and Sterling Heights?
Should I relocate from Ann Arbor to Sterling Heights as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Ann Arbor vs Sterling Heights?
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