Bolingbrook vs Chicago: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Bolingbrook, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bolingbrook, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,018 | $108,321▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.01 | $52.08▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,137 | $87,316▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $90,036 | $100,534▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $121,001 | $126,764▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $133,291 | $145,821▲ |
| Total Employed | 19 | 7,880▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bolingbrook.
The salary gap between Bolingbrook and Chicago is $4,303 (4.14%). Chicago's median is +2.88% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bolingbrook spans $59,154,Chicago spans $58,505. Bolingbrook 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, Bolingbrook ($107,125 effective) pays 2.45% more than Chicago ($104,562 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bolingbrook if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,125)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,321/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($145,821)
- ✓Larger job market (7,880 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Bolingbrook grew 7.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.1% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Bolingbrook, IL
$94,111 (2024) → $101,521 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$93,450 (2019) → $105,720 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bolingbrook, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Bolingbrook or Chicago?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bolingbrook and Chicago?
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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