Cincinnati vs Columbus: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Cincinnati, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cincinnati, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,421 | $107,716▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.69 | $51.78▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,163▲ | $81,005 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,794▲ | $85,155 |
| 75th Percentile | $115,821 | $116,159▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $128,895▲ | $127,163 |
| Total Employed | 2,090▲ | 2,030 |
Verdict
Cincinnati and Columbus are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Cincinnati and Columbus is $2,295 (2.18%). Columbus's median is +2.31% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cincinnati spans $46,732,Columbus spans $46,158. Cincinnati 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, Columbus ($112,828 effective) pays 2.07% more than Cincinnati ($110,539 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cincinnati if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,895)
- ✓Larger job market (2,090 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,716/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,828)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Cincinnati grew 14.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.0% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Cincinnati, OH
$89,610 (2019) → $102,890 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$87,600 (2019) → $105,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cincinnati, OH
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Cincinnati or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cincinnati and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Cincinnati to Columbus as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Cincinnati vs Columbus?
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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