Northampton vs Springfield: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Northampton, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Northampton, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $111,840▲ | $106,118 |
| Hourly Rate | $53.77▲ | $51.01 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,671▲ | $79,488 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,276▲ | $90,278 |
| 75th Percentile | $130,375▲ | $119,940 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $142,695▲ | $131,948 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 390▲ |
Verdict
Northampton, MA offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Northampton and Springfield is $5,722 (5.39%). Northampton's median is +6.22% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Northampton spans $54,024,Springfield spans $52,460. Northampton 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, Springfield ($110,469 effective) pays 7.17% more than Northampton ($103,078 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Northampton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($111,840/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($142,695)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (390 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,469)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Northampton grew 5.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.6% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Northampton, MA
$103,852 (2024) → $109,155 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$89,620 (2019) → $103,570 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Northampton, MA
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Northampton or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Northampton and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Northampton to Springfield as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Northampton vs Springfield?
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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