Detroit vs Sterling Heights: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Detroit, MI and Sterling Heights, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Sterling Heights, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,503 | $106,322▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.73 | $51.12▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,675▲ | $76,267 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,359▲ | $85,979 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,878 | $123,756▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,366 | $147,869▲ |
| Total Employed | 3,770▲ | 29 |
Verdict
Sterling Heights, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Detroit.
The salary gap between Detroit and Sterling Heights is $819 (0.78%). Sterling Heights's median is +0.98% 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,Sterling Heights spans $71,602. Sterling Heights 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, Sterling Heights ($114,079 effective) pays 8.45% 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…
- ✓Larger job market (3,770 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Sterling Heights if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,322/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($147,869)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,079)
- ✓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 Sterling Heights over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$91,420 (2019) → $102,970 (2025)
Sterling Heights, MI
$87,540 (2024) → $103,769 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Sterling Heights, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Detroit or Sterling Heights?
What is the hourly rate difference between Detroit and Sterling Heights?
Should I relocate from Detroit to Sterling Heights as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Detroit vs Sterling Heights?
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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