Derby vs Topeka: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Derby, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Derby, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,966 | $66,004▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.27 | $31.73▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,694 | $52,567▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $54,981 | $60,323▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $71,496 | $74,438▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $79,731▲ | $76,945 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Topeka, KS offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Derby.
The salary gap between Derby and Topeka is $3,038 (4.82%). Topeka's median is -6.04% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Derby spans $35,037,Topeka spans $24,378. Derby 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, Topeka ($74,312 effective) pays 7.28% more than Derby ($69,270 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Derby if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($79,731)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($66,004/year)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $74,312)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Derby grew 14.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.1% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Derby, KS
$53,782 (2024) → $61,293 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$57,850 (2019) → $64,250 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Derby or Topeka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Derby and Topeka?
Should I relocate from Derby to Topeka as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Derby vs Topeka?
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