Phoenix vs Tucson: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,759▲ | $104,940 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.85▲ | $50.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,878▲ | $82,388 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,398▲ | $89,130 |
| 75th Percentile | $125,370▲ | $121,815 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $137,716 | $139,940▲ |
| Total Employed | 3,760▲ | 660 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tucson.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Tucson is $819 (0.78%). Phoenix's median is +0.45% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $52,838,Tucson spans $57,552. Tucson 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, Tucson ($108,302 effective) pays 5.80% more than Phoenix ($102,365 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,759/year)
- ✓Larger job market (3,760 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($139,940)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,302)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Phoenix grew 15.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.1% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$89,150 (2019) → $103,220 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$87,480 (2019) → $102,420 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Phoenix or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Tucson as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Phoenix vs Tucson?
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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