San Francisco vs Modesto: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between San Francisco, CA and Modesto, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Francisco, CA | Modesto, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $145,473▲ | $129,714 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.94▲ | $62.36 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $106,415▲ | $89,888 |
| 25th Percentile | $126,507▲ | $105,974 |
| 75th Percentile | $164,725▲ | $145,585 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $192,697▲ | $167,379 |
| Total Employed | 3,140▲ | 400 |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Modesto.
The salary gap between San Francisco and Modesto is $15,759 (12.15%). San Francisco's median is +38.17% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Francisco spans $86,282,Modesto spans $77,491. San Francisco 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, San Francisco ($125,828 effective) pays 0.99% more than Modesto ($124,596 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($145,473/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($192,697)
- ✓Larger job market (3,140 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $125,828)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Modesto if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in San Francisco grew 33.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 26.0% growth in Modesto over the same period.
San Francisco, CA
$106,090 (2019) → $141,980 (2025)
Modesto, CA
$100,470 (2019) → $126,600 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Francisco, CA
Modesto, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: San Francisco or Modesto?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Francisco and Modesto?
Should I relocate from San Francisco to Modesto as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in San Francisco vs Modesto?
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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