Marana vs Phoenix: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Marana, AZ and Phoenix, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Marana, AZ | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,300▲ | $66,487 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.36▲ | $31.97 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,475▲ | $37,147 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,046 | $62,860▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $76,323 | $79,944▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $85,486▲ | $82,061 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 1,440▲ |
Verdict
Marana, AZ offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Phoenix.
The salary gap between Marana and Phoenix is $813 (1.22%). Marana's median is -4.20% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Marana spans $39,011,Phoenix spans $44,914. Phoenix 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, Marana ($68,325 effective) pays 6.17% more than Phoenix ($64,353 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Marana if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,300/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($85,486)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,325)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,440 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Marana grew -0.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 81.3% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Marana, AZ
$65,552 (2024) → $65,512 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$35,700 (2019) → $64,720 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Marana, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Marana or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Marana and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Marana to Phoenix as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Marana vs Phoenix?
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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