Carol Stream vs Chicago: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Carol Stream, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carol Stream, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,893 | $108,321▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.02 | $52.08▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,491 | $87,316▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $87,549 | $100,534▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $117,960 | $126,764▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $129,933 | $145,821▲ |
| Total Employed | 10 | 7,880▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Carol Stream.
The salary gap between Carol Stream and Chicago is $8,428 (8.44%). 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 Carol Stream spans $56,442,Chicago spans $58,505. Chicago 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, Chicago ($104,562 effective) pays 1.64% more than Carol Stream ($102,876 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carol Stream if…
- ✓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)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,562)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Carol Stream grew 7.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.1% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Carol Stream, IL
$90,380 (2024) → $97,495 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$93,450 (2019) → $105,720 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carol Stream, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Carol Stream or Chicago?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carol Stream and Chicago?
Should I relocate from Carol Stream to Chicago as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Carol Stream vs 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