Memphis vs Oak Ridge: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Memphis, TN and Oak Ridge, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Memphis, TN | Oak Ridge, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,241▲ | $62,985 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.41▲ | $30.28 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,560▲ | $43,909 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,703▲ | $54,604 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,198▲ | $71,135 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,461 | $83,009▲ |
| Total Employed | 490▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Memphis, TN offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Oak Ridge.
The salary gap between Memphis and Oak Ridge is $256 (0.41%). Memphis's median is -9.97% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Memphis spans $33,901,Oak Ridge spans $39,100. Oak Ridge 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, Oak Ridge ($68,611 effective) pays 0.01% more than Memphis ($68,607 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,241/year)
- ✓Larger job market (490 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Oak Ridge if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($83,009)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,611)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Memphis grew 13.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 3.1% growth in Oak Ridge over the same period.
Memphis, TN
$54,100 (2019) → $61,560 (2025)
Oak Ridge, TN
$59,445 (2024) → $61,311 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Memphis, TN
Oak Ridge, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Memphis or Oak Ridge?
What is the hourly rate difference between Memphis and Oak Ridge?
Should I relocate from Memphis to Oak Ridge as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Memphis vs Oak Ridge?
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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