Salem vs Springfield: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Salem, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salem, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $75,860 | $75,948▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $36.47 | $36.51▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,110 | $60,323▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $68,724▲ | $65,151 |
| 75th Percentile | $84,106▲ | $77,921 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,801▲ | $80,561 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 180▲ |
Verdict
Springfield, MA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Salem.
The salary gap between Salem and Springfield is $88 (0.12%). Springfield's median is +8.12% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Salem spans $42,691,Springfield spans $20,238. Salem 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 13.08% more than Salem ($69,917 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,801)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($75,948/year)
- ✓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 Salem grew -1.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.3% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Salem, MA
$75,270 (2024) → $73,844 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$60,970 (2019) → $73,930 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Salem or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Salem and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Salem to Springfield as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Salem 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