Austin vs Cleburne: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Austin, TX and Cleburne, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Cleburne, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,179 | $106,519▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $51.05 | $51.21▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,355▲ | $82,695 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,468▲ | $90,148 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,100▲ | $125,008 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,649▲ | $136,881 |
| Total Employed | 2,470▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Austin and Cleburne are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Austin and Cleburne is $340 (0.32%). Cleburne's median is +1.17% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $54,294,Cleburne spans $54,186. Austin 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, Cleburne ($110,957 effective) pays 2.48% more than Austin ($108,273 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,649)
- ✓Larger job market (2,470 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Cleburne if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,519/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,957)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Austin grew 21.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.9% growth in Cleburne over the same period.
Austin, TX
$85,260 (2019) → $103,630 (2025)
Cleburne, TX
$95,433 (2024) → $103,962 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Cleburne, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Austin or Cleburne?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Cleburne?
Should I relocate from Austin to Cleburne as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Austin vs Cleburne?
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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