Lancaster vs Philadelphia: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Lancaster, PA and Philadelphia, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lancaster, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,641 | $73,493▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.60 | $35.34▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,112 | $61,001▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $54,118 | $64,165▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $76,482 | $81,229▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $80,006 | $83,088▲ |
| Total Employed | 220 | 1,650▲ |
Verdict
Philadelphia, PA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lancaster.
The salary gap between Lancaster and Philadelphia is $9,852 (15.48%). Philadelphia's median is +4.62% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lancaster spans $29,894,Philadelphia spans $22,087. Lancaster 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, Philadelphia ($71,663 effective) pays 10.64% more than Lancaster ($64,770 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lancaster if…
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($73,493/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($83,088)
- ✓Larger job market (1,650 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $71,663)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Lancaster grew 1.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.5% growth in Philadelphia over the same period.
Lancaster, PA
$60,860 (2019) → $61,950 (2025)
Philadelphia, PA
$59,380 (2019) → $71,540 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lancaster, PA
Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Lancaster or Philadelphia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lancaster and Philadelphia?
Should I relocate from Lancaster to Philadelphia as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Lancaster vs Philadelphia?
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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