Dallas vs Austin: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Dallas, TX and Austin, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dallas, TX | Austin, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $82,564 | $87,249▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.69 | $41.94▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,924 | $58,587▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $65,829 | $79,955▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $93,905 | $95,087▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,753▲ | $102,966 |
| Total Employed | 2,110▲ | 1,180 |
Verdict
Dallas and Austin are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Dallas and Austin is $4,685 (5.67%). Austin's median is +24.20% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dallas spans $68,829,Austin spans $44,379. Dallas 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, Austin ($88,970 effective) pays 11.09% more than Dallas ($80,089 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dallas if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($107,753)
- ✓Larger job market (2,110 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,249/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $88,970)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Dallas grew 4.5% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 32.1% growth in Austin over the same period.
Dallas, TX
$76,920 (2021) → $80,370 (2025)
Austin, TX
$64,290 (2019) → $84,930 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dallas, TX
Austin, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Dallas or Austin?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dallas and Austin?
Should I relocate from Dallas to Austin as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Dallas vs Austin?
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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