Columbus vs Xenia: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Columbus, OH and Xenia, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Xenia, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $71,377▲ | $61,952 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.32▲ | $29.78 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,816▲ | $45,037 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,350▲ | $54,880 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,547▲ | $69,864 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,878▲ | $77,351 |
| Total Employed | 1,100▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Xenia.
The salary gap between Columbus and Xenia is $9,425 (15.21%). Columbus's median is +1.61% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $41,062,Xenia spans $32,314. 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, Columbus ($74,765 effective) pays 9.46% more than Xenia ($68,304 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($71,377/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($98,878)
- ✓Larger job market (1,100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $74,765)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Xenia if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Columbus grew 23.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.6% growth in Xenia over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$56,140 (2019) → $69,480 (2025)
Xenia, OH
$55,012 (2024) → $60,306 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Columbus or Xenia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Xenia?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Xenia as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Columbus vs Xenia?
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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