Fuquay-Varina vs Wilmington: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Fuquay-Varina, NC and Wilmington, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fuquay-Varina, NC | Wilmington, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,286 | $77,890▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $31.38 | $37.45▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,979 | $58,063▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $59,266 | $66,343▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $72,463 | $78,075▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $79,932 | $89,303▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 220▲ |
Verdict
Wilmington, NC offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fuquay-Varina.
The salary gap between Fuquay-Varina and Wilmington is $12,604 (19.31%). Wilmington's median is +10.88% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fuquay-Varina spans $33,953,Wilmington spans $31,240. Fuquay-Varina 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, Wilmington ($80,780 effective) pays 15.81% more than Fuquay-Varina ($69,750 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fuquay-Varina if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Wilmington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($77,890/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($89,303)
- ✓Larger job market (220 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $80,780)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Fuquay-Varina grew 4.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 17.0% growth in Wilmington over the same period.
Fuquay-Varina, NC
$60,716 (2024) → $63,551 (2025)
Wilmington, NC
$64,800 (2019) → $75,820 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fuquay-Varina, NC
Wilmington, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Fuquay-Varina or Wilmington?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fuquay-Varina and Wilmington?
Should I relocate from Fuquay-Varina to Wilmington as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Fuquay-Varina vs Wilmington?
Related Comparisons
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