Des Moines vs Dubuque: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Des Moines, IA and Dubuque, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Dubuque, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,196 | $102,296▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.18 | $49.18▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,368▲ | $74,386 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,749 | $81,527▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $108,679▲ | $107,050 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,700▲ | $113,515 |
| Total Employed | 740▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Des Moines and Dubuque are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Dubuque is $2,100 (2.10%). Dubuque's median is -2.84% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $46,332,Dubuque spans $39,129. Des Moines 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, Dubuque ($117,140 effective) pays 7.21% more than Des Moines ($109,264 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($123,700)
- ✓Larger job market (740 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Dubuque if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,296/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,140)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Des Moines grew 17.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 30.8% growth in Dubuque over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$83,120 (2019) → $97,790 (2025)
Dubuque, IA
$76,340 (2019) → $99,840 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Dubuque, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Des Moines or Dubuque?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Dubuque?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Dubuque as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Des Moines vs Dubuque?
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