Grand Rapids vs Pontiac: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Pontiac, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Pontiac, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,538▲ | $100,562 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.82▲ | $48.35 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,650▲ | $75,922 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,482▲ | $83,888 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,448 | $117,657▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,538 | $129,989▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,460▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Pontiac.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Pontiac is $976 (0.97%). Grand Rapids's median is -3.56% 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,Pontiac spans $54,067. Pontiac 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, Pontiac ($107,899 effective) pays 1.53% 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…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,538/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,460 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Pontiac if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,989)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,899)
- ✓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 18.5% growth in Pontiac over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$86,960 (2019) → $99,100 (2025)
Pontiac, MI
$82,798 (2024) → $98,148 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Pontiac, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Grand Rapids or Pontiac?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Pontiac?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Pontiac as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Grand Rapids vs Pontiac?
Related Comparisons
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