Flagstaff vs Phoenix: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Flagstaff, AZ and Phoenix, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Flagstaff, AZ | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,167 | $105,759▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.60 | $50.85▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,073▲ | $84,878 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,728▲ | $92,398 |
| 75th Percentile | $123,208 | $125,370▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,208 | $137,716▲ |
| Total Employed | 140 | 3,760▲ |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Flagstaff.
The salary gap between Flagstaff and Phoenix is $2,592 (2.51%). Phoenix's median is +0.45% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Flagstaff spans $38,135,Phoenix spans $52,838. Phoenix 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, Flagstaff ($102,833 effective) pays 0.46% more than Phoenix ($102,365 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Flagstaff if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,833)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,759/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,716)
- ✓Larger job market (3,760 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Flagstaff grew 20.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.8% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Flagstaff, AZ
$83,710 (2019) → $100,690 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$89,150 (2019) → $103,220 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Flagstaff, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Flagstaff or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Flagstaff and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Flagstaff to Phoenix as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Flagstaff vs Phoenix?
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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