Grand Rapids vs Pontiac: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Pontiac, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Pontiac, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $70,576▲ | $60,607 |
| Hourly Rate | $33.93▲ | $29.13 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $51,848▲ | $42,582 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,717▲ | $52,761 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,576▲ | $69,186 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $81,444▲ | $77,972 |
| Total Employed | 700▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pontiac.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Pontiac is $9,969 (16.45%). 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,Pontiac spans $35,390. Pontiac 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 13.59% more than Pontiac ($65,029 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 Pontiac 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 5.7% growth in Pontiac over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$53,340 (2019) → $68,700 (2025)
Pontiac, MI
$55,799 (2024) → $58,996 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Pontiac, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Grand Rapids or Pontiac?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Pontiac?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Pontiac as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Grand Rapids vs Pontiac?
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