Columbus vs Dalton: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Columbus, GA and Dalton, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, GA | Dalton, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,114 | $68,470▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.83 | $32.91▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $29,545 | $62,439▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $49,721 | $62,912▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $79,287▲ | $78,311 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $84,187▲ | $80,910 |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Columbus and Dalton are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Dalton is $4,356 (6.79%). Dalton's median is -2.53% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $54,642,Dalton spans $18,471. Columbus 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, Dalton ($76,210 effective) pays 6.14% more than Columbus ($71,799 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($84,187)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Dalton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($68,470/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $76,210)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Columbus grew 8.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -3.9% growth in Dalton over the same period.
Columbus, GA
$57,570 (2019) → $62,410 (2025)
Dalton, GA
$69,330 (2019) → $66,650 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, GA
Dalton, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Columbus or Dalton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Dalton?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Dalton as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Columbus vs Dalton?
Related Comparisons
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