Tampa vs Orlando: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Tampa, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tampa, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,950▲ | $104,028 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.46▲ | $50.01 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,204▲ | $80,206 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,150▲ | $85,913 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,366 | $111,989▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,659▲ | $122,911 |
| Total Employed | 2,350▲ | 1,560 |
Verdict
Tampa, FL offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Orlando.
The salary gap between Tampa and Orlando is $922 (0.89%). Tampa's median is -0.32% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tampa spans $41,455,Orlando spans $42,705. Orlando 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, Tampa ($104,024 effective) pays 1.41% 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 Tampa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,950/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($123,659)
- ✓Larger job market (2,350 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,024)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Tampa grew 19.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.5% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Tampa, FL
$85,660 (2019) → $102,430 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$91,870 (2019) → $101,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Tampa or Orlando?
What is the hourly rate difference between Tampa and Orlando?
Should I relocate from Tampa to Orlando as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Tampa vs Orlando?
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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