Grand Rapids vs Jackson: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Jackson, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Jackson, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,538 | $106,558▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.82 | $51.23▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,650 | $83,239▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,482 | $101,108▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $109,448 | $115,933▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,538 | $133,454▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,460▲ | 90 |
Verdict
Jackson, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Grand Rapids.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Jackson is $5,020 (4.94%). Jackson's median is +1.21% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Grand Rapids spans $29,888,Jackson spans $50,215. Jackson 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, Jackson ($116,103 effective) pays 9.25% more than Grand Rapids ($106,271 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,460 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,558/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($133,454)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $116,103)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Grand Rapids grew 14.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.6% growth in Jackson over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$86,960 (2019) → $99,100 (2025)
Jackson, MI
$102,360 (2019) → $104,000 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Jackson, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Grand Rapids or Jackson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Jackson?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Jackson as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Grand Rapids vs Jackson?
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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