Hartford vs Stratford: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Hartford, CT and Stratford, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hartford, CT | Stratford, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,819▲ | $104,541 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.83▲ | $50.26 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,454▲ | $74,777 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,892▲ | $90,368 |
| 75th Percentile | $115,595 | $121,489▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,759 | $133,761▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,370▲ | 13 |
Verdict
Hartford, CT offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Stratford.
The salary gap between Hartford and Stratford is $3,278 (3.14%). Hartford's median is +2.40% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hartford spans $42,305,Stratford spans $58,984. Stratford 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, Hartford ($104,937 effective) pays 8.31% more than Stratford ($96,887 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hartford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,819/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,370 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,937)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Stratford if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($133,761)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Hartford grew 10.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -9.1% growth in Stratford over the same period.
Hartford, CT
$95,090 (2019) → $105,230 (2025)
Stratford, CT
$112,229 (2024) → $102,031 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hartford, CT
Stratford, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Hartford or Stratford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hartford and Stratford?
Should I relocate from Hartford to Stratford as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Hartford vs Stratford?
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