Columbia vs Greer: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Columbia, SC and Greer, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Greer, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,296 | $106,002▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.18 | $50.96▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,476 | $81,832▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,247 | $89,618▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $111,476 | $124,272▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $121,169 | $136,398▲ |
| Total Employed | 670▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Greer, SC offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Columbia and Greer is $3,706 (3.62%). Greer's median is +0.68% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $54,693,Greer spans $54,566. 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, Greer ($115,849 effective) pays 6.07% more than Columbia ($109,218 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Larger job market (670 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Greer if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,002/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($136,398)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $115,849)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Columbia grew 12.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 23.7% growth in Greer over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$88,910 (2019) → $99,840 (2025)
Greer, SC
$83,624 (2024) → $103,457 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Columbia or Greer?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Greer?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Greer as a physical therapist?
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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