Apple Valley vs Rochester: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Apple Valley, MN and Rochester, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Apple Valley, MN | Rochester, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,476 | $102,603▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.83 | $49.32▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,725 | $82,040▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $83,450 | $97,429▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $119,184▲ | $105,452 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $129,111 | $130,964▲ |
| Total Employed | 13 | 410▲ |
Verdict
Rochester, MN offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Apple Valley.
The salary gap between Apple Valley and Rochester is $3,127 (3.14%). Rochester's median is -2.55% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Apple Valley spans $53,386,Rochester spans $48,924. Apple Valley has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rochester ($112,973 effective) pays 11.86% more than Apple Valley ($100,991 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Apple Valley if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,603/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,964)
- ✓Larger job market (410 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,973)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Apple Valley grew 10.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.9% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Apple Valley, MN
$87,859 (2024) → $97,088 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$86,390 (2019) → $100,140 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Apple Valley, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Apple Valley or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Apple Valley and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Apple Valley to Rochester as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Apple Valley 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