Phoenix vs Tucson: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,487 | $67,001▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $31.97 | $32.22▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,147 | $45,972▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $62,860▲ | $59,440 |
| 75th Percentile | $79,944▲ | $76,287 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,061▲ | $80,838 |
| Total Employed | 1,440▲ | 260 |
Verdict
Phoenix and Tucson are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Tucson is $514 (0.77%). Tucson's median is -4.62% 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,Tucson spans $34,866. 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, Tucson ($69,147 effective) pays 7.45% 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…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($82,061)
- ✓Larger job market (1,440 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,001/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $69,147)
- ✓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 87.3% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$35,700 (2019) → $64,720 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$34,830 (2019) → $65,220 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Phoenix or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Tucson as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Phoenix vs Tucson?
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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