Franklin vs Memphis: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Franklin, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Franklin, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,631▲ | $63,241 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.03▲ | $30.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,154 | $48,560▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $59,009▲ | $57,703 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,170 | $78,198▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $87,225▲ | $82,461 |
| Total Employed | 18 | 490▲ |
Verdict
Franklin, TN offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Memphis.
The salary gap between Franklin and Memphis is $3,390 (5.36%). Franklin's median is -5.15% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Franklin spans $39,071,Memphis spans $33,901. Franklin 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, Franklin ($72,583 effective) pays 5.80% more than Memphis ($68,607 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Franklin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($66,631/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($87,225)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $72,583)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Larger job market (490 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Franklin grew 9.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.8% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Franklin, TN
$59,260 (2024) → $64,860 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$54,100 (2019) → $61,560 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Franklin, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Franklin or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Franklin and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Franklin to Memphis as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Franklin vs Memphis?
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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