Idaho Falls vs Pocatello: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Idaho Falls, ID and Pocatello, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Idaho Falls, ID | Pocatello, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $94,376▲ | $84,714 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.37▲ | $40.73 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,372 | $74,970▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,011 | $80,964▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $105,708 | $106,856▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $126,384▲ | $114,058 |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 60 |
Verdict
Idaho Falls, ID offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pocatello.
The salary gap between Idaho Falls and Pocatello is $9,662 (11.41%). Idaho Falls's median is -10.36% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Idaho Falls spans $53,012,Pocatello spans $39,088. Idaho Falls has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Idaho Falls ($99,962 effective) pays 4.91% more than Pocatello ($95,285 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Idaho Falls if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($94,376/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,384)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,962)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Pocatello if…
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Idaho Falls grew 18.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -8.4% growth in Pocatello over the same period.
Idaho Falls, ID
$77,890 (2019) → $92,110 (2025)
Pocatello, ID
$90,240 (2019) → $82,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Idaho Falls, ID
Pocatello, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Idaho Falls or Pocatello?
What is the hourly rate difference between Idaho Falls and Pocatello?
Should I relocate from Idaho Falls to Pocatello as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Idaho Falls vs Pocatello?
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