Seattle vs Spokane: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Seattle, WA and Spokane, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Seattle, WA | Spokane, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,237▲ | $66,507 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.33▲ | $31.98 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,609 | $39,161▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $37,609 | $58,371▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $84,208▲ | $76,667 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,494▲ | $84,680 |
| Total Employed | 1,120▲ | 220 |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Spokane.
The salary gap between Seattle and Spokane is $730 (1.10%). Seattle's median is -4.28% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Seattle spans $61,885,Spokane spans $45,519. Seattle 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, Spokane ($66,278 effective) pays 9.55% more than Seattle ($60,501 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,237/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,494)
- ✓Larger job market (1,120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $66,278)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Seattle grew 5.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.5% growth in Spokane over the same period.
Seattle, WA
$62,310 (2019) → $65,450 (2025)
Spokane, WA
$55,110 (2019) → $64,740 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
Spokane, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Seattle or Spokane?
What is the hourly rate difference between Seattle and Spokane?
Should I relocate from Seattle to Spokane as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Seattle vs Spokane?
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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