Needham vs Worcester: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Needham, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Needham, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,472 | $106,343▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.71 | $51.13▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,808 | $83,700▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $87,730 | $97,368▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $122,294 | $122,716▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $133,098▲ | $128,639 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 750▲ |
Verdict
Worcester, MA offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Needham.
The salary gap between Needham and Worcester is $871 (0.83%). Worcester's median is +1.00% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Needham spans $53,290,Worcester spans $44,939. Needham 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, Worcester ($103,726 effective) pays 6.70% more than Needham ($97,209 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Needham if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($133,098)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,343/year)
- ✓Larger job market (750 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,726)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Needham grew -3.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.3% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Needham, MA
$106,605 (2024) → $102,940 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$87,730 (2019) → $103,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Needham, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Needham or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Needham and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Needham to Worcester as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Needham vs Worcester?
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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