New Bedford vs Springfield: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between New Bedford, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Bedford, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $79,319▲ | $75,948 |
| Hourly Rate | $38.13▲ | $36.51 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,383 | $60,323▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $70,451▲ | $65,151 |
| 75th Percentile | $90,517▲ | $77,921 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,520▲ | $80,561 |
| Total Employed | 24 | 180▲ |
Verdict
New Bedford, MA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between New Bedford and Springfield is $3,371 (4.44%). New Bedford's median is +12.91% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Bedford spans $45,137,Springfield spans $20,238. New Bedford has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Springfield ($79,062 effective) pays 8.15% more than New Bedford ($73,105 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Bedford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($79,319/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($102,520)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $79,062)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in New Bedford grew 12.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 21.3% growth in Springfield over the same period.
New Bedford, MA
$68,670 (2019) → $77,211 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$60,970 (2019) → $73,930 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Bedford, MA
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: New Bedford or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Bedford and Springfield?
Should I relocate from New Bedford to Springfield as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in New Bedford vs Springfield?
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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