Norfolk vs Roanoke: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Norfolk, VA and Roanoke, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Norfolk, VA | Roanoke, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,863▲ | $101,200 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.41▲ | $48.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,314▲ | $68,935 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,080▲ | $83,986 |
| 75th Percentile | $126,718▲ | $115,677 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $144,034▲ | $124,376 |
| Total Employed | 54 | 270▲ |
Verdict
Norfolk, VA offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Roanoke.
The salary gap between Norfolk and Roanoke is $3,663 (3.62%). Norfolk's median is -0.40% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Norfolk spans $70,720,Roanoke spans $55,441. Norfolk 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, Roanoke ($108,099 effective) pays 6.38% more than Norfolk ($101,611 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Norfolk if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,863/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($144,034)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Roanoke if…
- ✓Larger job market (270 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,099)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Norfolk grew -0.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.6% growth in Roanoke over the same period.
Norfolk, VA
$102,488 (2024) → $102,345 (2025)
Roanoke, VA
$90,080 (2019) → $98,770 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Norfolk, VA
Roanoke, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Norfolk or Roanoke?
What is the hourly rate difference between Norfolk and Roanoke?
Should I relocate from Norfolk to Roanoke as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Norfolk vs Roanoke?
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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