Grand Rapids vs Jackson: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Jackson, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Jackson, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $70,576▲ | $62,655 |
| Hourly Rate | $33.93▲ | $30.12 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $51,848▲ | $48,355 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,717▲ | $62,655 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,576 | $80,746▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $81,444▲ | $80,746 |
| Total Employed | 700 | N/A |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Jackson.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Jackson is $7,921 (12.64%). Grand Rapids's median is +0.47% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Grand Rapids spans $29,596,Jackson spans $32,391. Jackson has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced physical therapist assistants.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Grand Rapids ($73,866 effective) pays 8.20% more than Jackson ($68,267 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($70,576/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($81,444)
- ✓Larger job market (700 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $73,866)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Grand Rapids grew 28.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.7% growth in Jackson over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$53,340 (2019) → $68,700 (2025)
Jackson, MI
$56,100 (2019) → $60,990 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Jackson, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Grand Rapids or Jackson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Jackson?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Jackson as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Grand Rapids vs Jackson?
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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