Augusta vs Valdosta: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Augusta, GA and Valdosta, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Augusta, GA | Valdosta, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,653▲ | $99,437 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.91▲ | $47.81 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,224▲ | $65,031 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,833▲ | $74,837 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,489 | $119,253▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $126,231 | $135,821▲ |
| Total Employed | 330▲ | 70 |
Verdict
Augusta, GA offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Valdosta.
The salary gap between Augusta and Valdosta is $216 (0.22%). Augusta's median is -5.35% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Augusta spans $49,007,Valdosta spans $70,790. Valdosta 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, Valdosta ($112,650 effective) pays 3.89% more than Augusta ($108,433 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,653/year)
- ✓Larger job market (330 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Valdosta if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,821)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,650)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Augusta grew 13.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.4% growth in Valdosta over the same period.
Augusta, GA
$86,060 (2019) → $97,260 (2025)
Valdosta, GA
$88,710 (2019) → $97,050 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Augusta, GA
Valdosta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Augusta or Valdosta?
What is the hourly rate difference between Augusta and Valdosta?
Should I relocate from Augusta to Valdosta as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Augusta vs Valdosta?
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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