Caldwell vs Idaho Falls: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Caldwell, ID and Idaho Falls, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Caldwell, ID | Idaho Falls, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,130▲ | $94,376 |
| Hourly Rate | $46.22▲ | $45.37 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,638 | $73,372▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $83,005▲ | $80,011 |
| 75th Percentile | $111,622▲ | $105,708 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $122,844 | $126,384▲ |
| Total Employed | 8 | 90▲ |
Verdict
Caldwell and Idaho Falls are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Caldwell and Idaho Falls is $1,754 (1.86%). Caldwell's median is -8.70% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Caldwell spans $54,206,Idaho Falls spans $53,012. Caldwell 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, Caldwell ($100,871 effective) pays 0.91% more than Idaho Falls ($99,962 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Caldwell if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($96,130/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,871)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Idaho Falls if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,384)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Caldwell grew 8.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.3% growth in Idaho Falls over the same period.
Caldwell, ID
$86,444 (2024) → $93,822 (2025)
Idaho Falls, ID
$77,890 (2019) → $92,110 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Caldwell, ID
Idaho Falls, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Caldwell or Idaho Falls?
What is the hourly rate difference between Caldwell and Idaho Falls?
Should I relocate from Caldwell to Idaho Falls as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Caldwell vs Idaho Falls?
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