Detroit vs Norton Shores: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Detroit, MI and Norton Shores, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Norton Shores, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,503▲ | $102,552 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.73▲ | $49.30 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,675▲ | $82,184 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,359▲ | $85,789 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,878 | $116,205▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,366▲ | $124,407 |
| Total Employed | 3,770▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Detroit, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Norton Shores.
The salary gap between Detroit and Norton Shores is $2,951 (2.88%). Detroit's median is +0.20% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $51,691,Norton Shores spans $42,223. Detroit 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, Norton Shores ($110,034 effective) pays 4.61% more than Detroit ($105,190 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,503/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($134,366)
- ✓Larger job market (3,770 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Norton Shores if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,034)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Detroit grew 12.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 21.2% growth in Norton Shores over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$91,420 (2019) → $102,970 (2025)
Norton Shores, MI
$82,563 (2024) → $100,090 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Norton Shores, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Detroit or Norton Shores?
What is the hourly rate difference between Detroit and Norton Shores?
Should I relocate from Detroit to Norton Shores as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Detroit vs Norton Shores?
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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