Springfield vs Wellesley: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Springfield, MA and Wellesley, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Springfield, MA | Wellesley, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,118▲ | $101,982 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.01▲ | $49.03 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,488 | $80,047▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $90,278▲ | $86,874 |
| 75th Percentile | $119,940 | $120,348▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,948 | $132,016▲ |
| Total Employed | 390▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Springfield, MA offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Wellesley.
The salary gap between Springfield and Wellesley is $4,136 (4.06%). Springfield's median is +0.79% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Springfield spans $52,460,Wellesley spans $51,969. Springfield 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 17.53% more than Wellesley ($93,993 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,118/year)
- ✓Larger job market (390 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,469)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Wellesley if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($132,016)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Springfield grew 15.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -3.4% growth in Wellesley over the same period.
Springfield, MA
$89,620 (2019) → $103,570 (2025)
Wellesley, MA
$103,077 (2024) → $99,533 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, MA
Wellesley, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Springfield or Wellesley?
What is the hourly rate difference between Springfield and Wellesley?
Should I relocate from Springfield to Wellesley as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Springfield vs Wellesley?
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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