Philadelphia vs Altoona: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Philadelphia, PA and Altoona, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Philadelphia, PA | Altoona, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,392▲ | $100,114 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.11▲ | $48.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,214▲ | $75,206 |
| 25th Percentile | $98,054▲ | $84,068 |
| 75th Percentile | $123,516▲ | $112,737 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,001▲ | $124,171 |
| Total Employed | 6,250▲ | 150 |
Verdict
Philadelphia, PA offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Altoona.
The salary gap between Philadelphia and Altoona is $8,278 (8.27%). Philadelphia's median is +2.95% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Philadelphia spans $52,787,Altoona spans $48,965. Philadelphia 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, Altoona ($111,850 effective) pays 5.83% more than Philadelphia ($105,693 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,392/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,001)
- ✓Larger job market (6,250 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Altoona if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,850)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Philadelphia grew 15.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.8% growth in Altoona over the same period.
Philadelphia, PA
$91,980 (2019) → $105,790 (2025)
Altoona, PA
$81,560 (2019) → $97,710 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Philadelphia, PA
Altoona, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Philadelphia or Altoona?
What is the hourly rate difference between Philadelphia and Altoona?
Should I relocate from Philadelphia to Altoona as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Philadelphia vs Altoona?
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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