Allentown vs Reading: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Allentown, PA and Reading, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Allentown, PA | Reading, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,298 | $71,428▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.35 | $34.34▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $59,162▲ | $53,471 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,203▲ | $61,361 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,715 | $79,123▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $80,551▲ | $80,458 |
| Total Employed | 250▲ | 90 |
Verdict
Allentown and Reading are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Allentown and Reading is $4,130 (6.14%). Reading's median is +1.68% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Allentown spans $21,389,Reading spans $26,987. Reading has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced physical therapist assistants.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Reading ($73,592 effective) pays 9.32% more than Allentown ($67,320 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Allentown if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($80,551)
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Reading if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($71,428/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $73,592)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Allentown grew 16.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.3% growth in Reading over the same period.
Allentown, PA
$56,280 (2019) → $65,510 (2025)
Reading, PA
$57,820 (2019) → $69,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Allentown, PA
Reading, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Allentown or Reading?
What is the hourly rate difference between Allentown and Reading?
Should I relocate from Allentown to Reading as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Allentown vs Reading?
Related Comparisons
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