Chicago vs Rockford: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Chicago, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $74,202▲ | $65,788 |
| Hourly Rate | $35.68▲ | $31.63 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $42,736▲ | $41,441 |
| 25th Percentile | $63,621▲ | $60,292 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,941▲ | $76,328 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $85,143▲ | $80,325 |
| Total Employed | 3,520▲ | 90 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rockford.
The salary gap between Chicago and Rockford is $8,414 (12.79%). Chicago's median is +5.63% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chicago spans $42,407,Rockford spans $38,884. Chicago 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, Chicago ($71,627 effective) pays 0.33% more than Rockford ($71,389 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($74,202/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($85,143)
- ✓Larger job market (3,520 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $71,627)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Chicago grew 16.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.0% growth in Rockford over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$61,830 (2019) → $72,230 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$53,810 (2019) → $64,040 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Chicago or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Rockford?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Rockford as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Chicago vs Rockford?
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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