Dearborn Heights vs Grand Rapids: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Dearborn Heights, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dearborn Heights, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,059▲ | $101,538 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.03▲ | $48.82 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,884 | $81,650▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,797 | $85,482▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $119,740▲ | $109,448 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $141,569▲ | $111,538 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 1,460▲ |
Verdict
Dearborn Heights, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Grand Rapids.
The salary gap between Dearborn Heights and Grand Rapids is $2,521 (2.48%). Dearborn Heights's median is -1.17% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dearborn Heights spans $65,685,Grand Rapids spans $29,888. Dearborn Heights 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, Dearborn Heights ($111,651 effective) pays 5.06% more than Grand Rapids ($106,271 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dearborn Heights if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,059/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($141,569)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,651)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,460 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Dearborn Heights grew 18.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.0% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Dearborn Heights, MI
$85,678 (2024) → $101,561 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$86,960 (2019) → $99,100 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dearborn Heights, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Dearborn Heights or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dearborn Heights and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from Dearborn Heights to Grand Rapids as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Dearborn Heights vs Grand Rapids?
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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