Augusta vs Pooler: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Augusta, GA and Pooler, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Augusta, GA | Pooler, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,217 | $67,265▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.87 | $32.34▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,089 | $45,925▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $53,522 | $61,488▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $76,708▲ | $75,174 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $83,920▲ | $82,866 |
| Total Employed | 150▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Augusta and Pooler are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Augusta and Pooler is $3,048 (4.75%). Pooler's median is -4.25% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Augusta spans $44,831,Pooler spans $36,941. Augusta 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, Pooler ($72,250 effective) pays 3.40% more than Augusta ($69,875 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($83,920)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Pooler if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,265/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $72,250)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Augusta grew 13.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.2% growth in Pooler over the same period.
Augusta, GA
$55,030 (2019) → $62,510 (2025)
Pooler, GA
$58,862 (2024) → $65,477 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Augusta, GA
Pooler, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Augusta or Pooler?
What is the hourly rate difference between Augusta and Pooler?
Should I relocate from Augusta to Pooler as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Augusta vs Pooler?
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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