Minneapolis vs Northfield: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Minneapolis, MN and Northfield, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Minneapolis, MN | Northfield, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $71,695▲ | $66,064 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.47▲ | $31.76 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,306▲ | $48,290 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,843▲ | $58,527 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,099▲ | $73,776 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $79,534 | $80,956▲ |
| Total Employed | 730▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Northfield.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Northfield is $5,631 (8.52%). Minneapolis's median is +2.06% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $17,228,Northfield spans $32,666. Northfield 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, Minneapolis ($68,397 effective) pays 1.98% more than Northfield ($67,070 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($71,695/year)
- ✓Larger job market (730 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,397)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Northfield if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($80,956)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Minneapolis grew 21.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 3.6% growth in Northfield over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$57,580 (2019) → $69,790 (2025)
Northfield, MN
$62,070 (2024) → $64,308 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Northfield, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Minneapolis or Northfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Northfield?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Northfield as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Minneapolis vs Northfield?
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