Augusta vs Valdosta: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Augusta, GA and Valdosta, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Augusta, GA | Valdosta, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,217 | $70,339▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.87 | $33.82▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,089▲ | $29,155 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,522▲ | $50,461 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,708▲ | $75,013 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $83,920▲ | $78,989 |
| Total Employed | 150▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Augusta and Valdosta are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Augusta and Valdosta is $6,122 (9.53%). Valdosta's median is +0.13% 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,Valdosta spans $49,834. Valdosta 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, Valdosta ($79,685 effective) pays 14.04% 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 Valdosta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($70,339/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $79,685)
- ✓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 79.3% growth in Valdosta over the same period.
Augusta, GA
$55,030 (2019) → $62,510 (2025)
Valdosta, GA
$38,190 (2019) → $68,470 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Augusta, GA
Valdosta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Augusta or Valdosta?
What is the hourly rate difference between Augusta and Valdosta?
Should I relocate from Augusta to Valdosta as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Augusta vs Valdosta?
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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