Alexandria vs Virginia Beach: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Alexandria, VA and Virginia Beach, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Alexandria, VA | Virginia Beach, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,258▲ | $75,301 |
| Hourly Rate | $38.59▲ | $36.20 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,237▲ | $53,111 |
| 25th Percentile | $70,720▲ | $62,604 |
| 75th Percentile | $94,164▲ | $80,417 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,756▲ | $84,239 |
| Total Employed | 26 | 790▲ |
Verdict
Alexandria, VA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Virginia Beach.
The salary gap between Alexandria and Virginia Beach is $4,957 (6.58%). Alexandria's median is +14.25% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Alexandria spans $50,519,Virginia Beach spans $31,128. Alexandria 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, Alexandria ($77,769 effective) pays 1.15% more than Virginia Beach ($76,884 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Alexandria if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($80,258/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($107,756)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $77,769)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Virginia Beach if…
- ✓Larger job market (790 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Alexandria grew 14.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 25.0% growth in Virginia Beach over the same period.
Alexandria, VA
$68,213 (2024) → $78,125 (2025)
Virginia Beach, VA
$58,660 (2019) → $73,300 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Alexandria, VA
Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Alexandria or Virginia Beach?
What is the hourly rate difference between Alexandria and Virginia Beach?
Should I relocate from Alexandria to Virginia Beach as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Alexandria vs Virginia Beach?
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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