Dearborn vs Lansing: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Dearborn, MI and Lansing, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dearborn, MI | Lansing, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,959▲ | $101,753 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.46▲ | $48.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,888▲ | $77,511 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,842▲ | $85,144 |
| 75th Percentile | $126,658▲ | $105,349 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $142,274▲ | $121,108 |
| Total Employed | 19 | 310▲ |
Verdict
Dearborn, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lansing.
The salary gap between Dearborn and Lansing is $3,206 (3.15%). Dearborn's median is -0.31% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dearborn spans $61,386,Lansing spans $43,597. Dearborn 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 ($112,617 effective) pays 5.13% more than Lansing ($107,119 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dearborn if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,959/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($142,274)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,617)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Lansing if…
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Dearborn grew 18.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.3% growth in Lansing over the same period.
Dearborn, MI
$86,155 (2024) → $102,439 (2025)
Lansing, MI
$86,880 (2019) → $99,310 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dearborn, MI
Lansing, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
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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