Lynchburg vs Norfolk: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Lynchburg, VA and Norfolk, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lynchburg, VA | Norfolk, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $77,479▲ | $76,425 |
| Hourly Rate | $37.25▲ | $36.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $58,412▲ | $49,620 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,285▲ | $63,991 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,328 | $90,127▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,566 | $104,485▲ |
| Total Employed | 150▲ | 54 |
Verdict
Lynchburg, VA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Norfolk.
The salary gap between Lynchburg and Norfolk is $1,054 (1.38%). Lynchburg's median is +10.30% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lynchburg spans $44,154,Norfolk spans $54,865. Norfolk 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, Lynchburg ($86,701 effective) pays 17.08% more than Norfolk ($74,055 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lynchburg if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($77,479/year)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $86,701)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Norfolk if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($104,485)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Lynchburg grew 7.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.5% growth in Norfolk over the same period.
Lynchburg, VA
$70,240 (2019) → $75,420 (2025)
Norfolk, VA
$71,202 (2024) → $74,394 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lynchburg, VA
Norfolk, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Lynchburg or Norfolk?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lynchburg and Norfolk?
Should I relocate from Lynchburg to Norfolk as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Lynchburg vs Norfolk?
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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