Detroit vs Pontiac: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Detroit, MI and Pontiac, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Pontiac, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,503▲ | $100,562 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.73▲ | $48.35 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,675▲ | $75,922 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,359▲ | $83,888 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,878 | $117,657▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,366▲ | $129,989 |
| Total Employed | 3,770▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Detroit, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pontiac.
The salary gap between Detroit and Pontiac is $4,941 (4.91%). 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,Pontiac spans $54,067. Pontiac has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced physical therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Pontiac ($107,899 effective) pays 2.58% 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 Pontiac if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,899)
- ✓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 18.5% growth in Pontiac over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$91,420 (2019) → $102,970 (2025)
Pontiac, MI
$82,798 (2024) → $98,148 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Pontiac, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Detroit or Pontiac?
What is the hourly rate difference between Detroit and Pontiac?
Should I relocate from Detroit to Pontiac as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Detroit vs Pontiac?
Related Comparisons
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