Chicago vs DeKalb: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Chicago, IL and DeKalb, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | DeKalb, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,321▲ | $99,142 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.08▲ | $47.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,316▲ | $79,886 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,534▲ | $85,982 |
| 75th Percentile | $126,764▲ | $112,470 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $145,821▲ | $131,018 |
| Total Employed | 7,880▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to DeKalb.
The salary gap between Chicago and DeKalb is $9,179 (9.26%). 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 Chicago spans $58,505,DeKalb spans $51,132. Chicago 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, Chicago ($104,562 effective) pays 2.41% more than DeKalb ($102,103 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose DeKalb if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Chicago grew 13.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.9% growth in DeKalb over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$93,450 (2019) → $105,720 (2025)
DeKalb, IL
$89,700 (2024) → $96,762 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
DeKalb, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Chicago or DeKalb?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and DeKalb?
Should I relocate from Chicago to DeKalb as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Chicago vs DeKalb?
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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