Pierre vs Sioux Falls: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Pierre, SD and Sioux Falls, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pierre, SD | Sioux Falls, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,247▲ | $50,420 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.44▲ | $24.24 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $43,076▲ | $41,215 |
| 25th Percentile | $56,819▲ | $47,174 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,502▲ | $61,905 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $76,840▲ | $65,922 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Pierre, SD offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sioux Falls.
The salary gap between Pierre and Sioux Falls is $10,827 (21.47%). Pierre's median is -12.81% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pierre spans $33,764,Sioux Falls spans $24,707. Pierre 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, Pierre ($65,999 effective) pays 18.63% more than Sioux Falls ($55,632 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pierre if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,247/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($76,840)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,999)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Sioux Falls if…
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Pierre grew 14.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 27.9% growth in Sioux Falls over the same period.
Pierre, SD
$52,312 (2024) → $59,619 (2025)
Sioux Falls, SD
$38,360 (2019) → $49,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pierre, SD
Sioux Falls, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Pierre or Sioux Falls?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pierre and Sioux Falls?
Should I relocate from Pierre to Sioux Falls as a physical therapist assistant?
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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