Chester vs Pittsburgh: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Chester, PA and Pittsburgh, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chester, PA | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,220▲ | $57,549 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.43▲ | $27.67 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,443 | $50,964▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $55,664▲ | $51,879 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,037▲ | $65,264 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $75,097 | $76,595▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 670▲ |
Verdict
Chester and Pittsburgh are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Chester and Pittsburgh is $3,671 (6.38%). Chester's median is -12.85% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chester spans $28,654,Pittsburgh spans $25,631. Chester 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, Chester ($62,854 effective) pays 3.40% more than Pittsburgh ($60,788 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,220/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $62,854)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Pittsburgh if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($76,595)
- ✓Larger job market (670 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Chester grew -1.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -1.3% growth in Pittsburgh over the same period.
Chester, PA
$60,236 (2024) → $59,593 (2025)
Pittsburgh, PA
$56,760 (2019) → $56,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chester, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Chester or Pittsburgh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chester and Pittsburgh?
Should I relocate from Chester to Pittsburgh as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Chester vs Pittsburgh?
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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