Estero vs Orlando: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Estero, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Estero, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,281 | $104,028▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.21 | $50.01▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,072 | $80,206▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,815 | $85,913▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $113,572▲ | $111,989 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,837▲ | $122,911 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 1,560▲ |
Verdict
Orlando, FL offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Estero.
The salary gap between Estero and Orlando is $3,747 (3.74%). Orlando's median is -1.20% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Estero spans $56,765,Orlando spans $42,705. Estero 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, Orlando ($102,574 effective) pays 3.10% more than Estero ($99,485 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Estero if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,837)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,028/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,560 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,574)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Estero grew 6.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 10.5% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Estero, FL
$91,663 (2024) → $97,873 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$91,870 (2019) → $101,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Estero, FL
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Estero or Orlando?
What is the hourly rate difference between Estero and Orlando?
Should I relocate from Estero to Orlando as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Estero vs Orlando?
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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