Grand Rapids vs Monroe: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Monroe, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Monroe, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,538 | $105,032▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.82 | $50.50▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,650 | $81,712▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,482▲ | $84,202 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,448 | $117,942▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,538 | $120,729▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,460▲ | 50 |
Verdict
Monroe, 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 Monroe is $3,494 (3.44%). Monroe's median is -0.24% 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,Monroe spans $39,017. Monroe 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, Monroe ($112,343 effective) pays 5.71% 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 Monroe if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,032/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($120,729)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,343)
- ✓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 14.6% growth in Monroe over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$86,960 (2019) → $99,100 (2025)
Monroe, MI
$89,440 (2020) → $102,510 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Monroe, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Grand Rapids or Monroe?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Monroe?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Monroe as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Grand Rapids vs Monroe?
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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