Aberdeen vs Sioux Falls: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Aberdeen, SD and Sioux Falls, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aberdeen, SD | Sioux Falls, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,951▲ | $50,420 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.78▲ | $24.24 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,314▲ | $41,215 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,085▲ | $47,174 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,397▲ | $61,905 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $77,676▲ | $65,922 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Aberdeen, SD offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sioux Falls.
The salary gap between Aberdeen and Sioux Falls is $11,531 (22.87%). Aberdeen's median is -11.81% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aberdeen spans $32,362,Sioux Falls spans $24,707. Aberdeen 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, Aberdeen ($66,758 effective) pays 20.00% more than Sioux Falls ($55,632 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aberdeen if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,951/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($77,676)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $66,758)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Sioux Falls if…
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Aberdeen grew 14.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 27.9% growth in Sioux Falls over the same period.
Aberdeen, SD
$52,914 (2024) → $60,305 (2025)
Sioux Falls, SD
$38,360 (2019) → $49,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aberdeen, SD
Sioux Falls, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Aberdeen or Sioux Falls?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aberdeen and Sioux Falls?
Should I relocate from Aberdeen to Sioux Falls as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Aberdeen vs Sioux Falls?
Written by Jordan Lee, DPT
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in outpatient physical therapy. They specialize in orthopedic rehabilitation. Jordan works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.73% 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 Jordan Lee, DPT, a licensed physical therapist assistant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov