Des Moines vs Johnston: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Des Moines, IA and Johnston, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Johnston, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,035▲ | $58,001 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.31▲ | $27.88 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,999▲ | $44,538 |
| 25th Percentile | $56,091▲ | $52,941 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,143▲ | $66,321 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,001▲ | $73,301 |
| Total Employed | 170▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Des Moines, IA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Johnston.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Johnston is $5,034 (8.68%). Des Moines's median is -10.27% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $52,002,Johnston spans $28,763. Des Moines 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, Des Moines ($68,740 effective) pays 7.14% more than Johnston ($64,160 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,035/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,001)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,740)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Johnston if…
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Des Moines grew 13.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.2% growth in Johnston over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$54,150 (2019) → $61,360 (2025)
Johnston, IA
$50,343 (2024) → $56,460 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Johnston, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Des Moines or Johnston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Johnston?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Johnston as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Des Moines vs Johnston?
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