Maricopa vs Tucson: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Maricopa, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Maricopa, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,202▲ | $104,940 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.54▲ | $50.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,563 | $82,388▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $89,230▲ | $89,130 |
| 75th Percentile | $125,312▲ | $121,815 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $137,972 | $139,940▲ |
| Total Employed | 10 | 660▲ |
Verdict
Maricopa and Tucson are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Maricopa and Tucson is $2,262 (2.16%). Maricopa's median is +1.82% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Maricopa spans $57,409,Tucson spans $57,552. Tucson 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, Maricopa ($108,835 effective) pays 0.49% more than Tucson ($108,302 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Maricopa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,202/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,835)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($139,940)
- ✓Larger job market (660 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Maricopa grew 10.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 17.1% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Maricopa, AZ
$94,851 (2024) → $104,628 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$87,480 (2019) → $102,420 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Maricopa, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Maricopa or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Maricopa and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Maricopa to Tucson as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Maricopa vs Tucson?
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