Columbia vs Hagerstown: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Columbia, MD and Hagerstown, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, MD | Hagerstown, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $110,369▲ | $103,095 |
| Hourly Rate | $53.06▲ | $49.57 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,417▲ | $79,714 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,196▲ | $88,064 |
| 75th Percentile | $132,041▲ | $117,214 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $147,680▲ | $131,026 |
| Total Employed | 24 | 180▲ |
Verdict
Columbia, MD offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hagerstown.
The salary gap between Columbia and Hagerstown is $7,274 (7.06%). Columbia's median is +4.83% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $67,263,Hagerstown spans $51,312. Columbia 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, Hagerstown ($109,476 effective) pays 8.42% more than Columbia ($100,978 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($110,369/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($147,680)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Hagerstown if…
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,476)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Columbia grew -4.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.7% growth in Hagerstown over the same period.
Columbia, MD
$112,384 (2024) → $107,719 (2025)
Hagerstown, MD
$78,200 (2019) → $100,620 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, MD
Hagerstown, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Columbia or Hagerstown?
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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