Detroit vs Livonia: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Detroit, MI and Livonia, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Livonia, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,919▲ | $61,825 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.74▲ | $29.72 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $30,028 | $45,123▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $40,383 | $55,276▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $66,569 | $69,675▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,687▲ | $78,036 |
| Total Employed | 1,880▲ | 21 |
Verdict
Detroit, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Livonia.
The salary gap between Detroit and Livonia is $2,094 (3.39%). Detroit's median is -9.01% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $52,659,Livonia spans $32,913. Detroit 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, Livonia ($66,336 effective) pays 4.09% more than Detroit ($63,729 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,919/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($82,687)
- ✓Larger job market (1,880 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Livonia if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $66,336)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Detroit grew 15.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 5.7% growth in Livonia over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$54,030 (2019) → $62,220 (2025)
Livonia, MI
$56,920 (2024) → $60,182 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Livonia, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Detroit or Livonia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Detroit and Livonia?
Should I relocate from Detroit to Livonia as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Detroit vs Livonia?
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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