Phoenix vs Sierra Vista: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Sierra Vista, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Sierra Vista, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,487▲ | $63,853 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.97▲ | $30.70 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,147 | $47,126▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $62,860▲ | $57,286 |
| 75th Percentile | $79,944▲ | $72,611 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,061▲ | $81,031 |
| Total Employed | 1,440▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sierra Vista.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Sierra Vista is $2,634 (4.13%). Phoenix's median is -5.35% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $44,914,Sierra Vista spans $33,905. Phoenix 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, Sierra Vista ($64,825 effective) pays 0.73% 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 Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($66,487/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($82,061)
- ✓Larger job market (1,440 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Sierra Vista if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $64,825)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Phoenix grew 81.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -10.8% growth in Sierra Vista over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$35,700 (2019) → $64,720 (2025)
Sierra Vista, AZ
$69,720 (2024) → $62,156 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Sierra Vista, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Phoenix or Sierra Vista?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Sierra Vista?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Sierra Vista as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Phoenix vs Sierra Vista?
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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