Atlanta vs Rome: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Atlanta, GA and Rome, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Rome, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $76,770▲ | $73,637 |
| Hourly Rate | $36.91▲ | $35.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,585▲ | $44,379 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,138▲ | $54,930 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,550▲ | $82,020 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,056▲ | $85,358 |
| Total Employed | 1,370▲ | 80 |
Verdict
Atlanta, GA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rome.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Rome is $3,133 (4.25%). Atlanta's median is +9.29% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlanta spans $47,471,Rome spans $40,979. Atlanta 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, Rome ($81,673 effective) pays 6.45% more than Atlanta ($76,725 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($76,770/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,056)
- ✓Larger job market (1,370 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Rome if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $81,673)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Atlanta grew 31.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -5.4% growth in Rome over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$56,820 (2019) → $74,730 (2025)
Rome, GA
$75,760 (2020) → $71,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Atlanta or Rome?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlanta and Rome?
Should I relocate from Atlanta to Rome as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Atlanta vs Rome?
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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