Orlando vs Punta Gorda: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Orlando, FL and Punta Gorda, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Orlando, FL | Punta Gorda, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,028▲ | $103,515 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.01▲ | $49.76 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,206 | $80,236▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,913▲ | $84,796 |
| 75th Percentile | $111,989▲ | $111,856 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $122,911 | $124,632▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,560▲ | 160 |
Verdict
Orlando, FL offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Punta Gorda.
The salary gap between Orlando and Punta Gorda is $513 (0.50%). Orlando's median is -1.20% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Orlando spans $42,705,Punta Gorda spans $44,396. Punta Gorda 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, Punta Gorda ($102,974 effective) pays 0.39% more than Orlando ($102,574 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,028/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,560 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Punta Gorda if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,632)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,974)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Orlando grew 10.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -6.8% growth in Punta Gorda over the same period.
Orlando, FL
$91,870 (2019) → $101,530 (2025)
Punta Gorda, FL
$108,420 (2019) → $101,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Orlando, FL
Punta Gorda, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Orlando or Punta Gorda?
What is the hourly rate difference between Orlando and Punta Gorda?
Should I relocate from Orlando to Punta Gorda as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Orlando vs Punta Gorda?
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