Manchester vs Salem: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Manchester, NH and Salem, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Manchester, NH | Salem, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $73,390 | $73,556▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $35.29 | $35.36▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,316▲ | $50,851 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,545▲ | $63,295 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,852 | $82,658▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,272▲ | $91,450 |
| Total Employed | 110▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Manchester and Salem are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Manchester and Salem is $166 (0.23%). Salem's median is +4.71% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Manchester spans $35,956,Salem spans $40,599. Salem 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, Manchester ($69,461 effective) pays 1.33% more than Salem ($68,552 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Manchester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($98,272)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $69,461)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($73,556/year)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Manchester grew 19.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 0.6% growth in Salem over the same period.
Manchester, NH
$59,980 (2019) → $71,440 (2025)
Salem, NH
$71,203 (2024) → $71,601 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manchester, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Manchester or Salem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Manchester and Salem?
Should I relocate from Manchester to Salem as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Manchester vs Salem?
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