Central vs Lafayette: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Central, LA and Lafayette, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Central, LA | Lafayette, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,370▲ | $86,415 |
| Hourly Rate | $46.81▲ | $41.55 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,776▲ | $55,626 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,246▲ | $58,966 |
| 75th Percentile | $113,921▲ | $108,649 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,912 | $126,251▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 290▲ |
Verdict
Central and Lafayette are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Central and Lafayette is $10,955 (12.68%). Central's median is -7.52% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Central spans $47,136,Lafayette spans $70,625. Lafayette 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, Central ($107,829 effective) pays 8.82% more than Lafayette ($99,090 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Central if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($97,370/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,829)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Lafayette if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,251)
- ✓Larger job market (290 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Central grew 19.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 1.0% growth in Lafayette over the same period.
Central, LA
$79,807 (2024) → $95,032 (2025)
Lafayette, LA
$83,480 (2019) → $84,340 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Central, LA
Lafayette, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Central or Lafayette?
What is the hourly rate difference between Central and Lafayette?
Should I relocate from Central to Lafayette as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Central vs Lafayette?
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