Springfield vs Wildwood: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Springfield, MO and Wildwood, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Springfield, MO | Wildwood, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,097▲ | $62,713 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.34▲ | $30.15 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,358▲ | $45,085 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,241▲ | $55,232 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,993▲ | $70,351 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $78,897▲ | $77,775 |
| Total Employed | 190▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Springfield, MO offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Wildwood.
The salary gap between Springfield and Wildwood is $384 (0.61%). Springfield's median is -10.18% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Springfield spans $28,539,Wildwood spans $32,690. Wildwood has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced physical therapist assistants.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Springfield ($71,228 effective) pays 1.77% more than Wildwood ($69,992 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,097/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($78,897)
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $71,228)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Wildwood if…
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Springfield grew 15.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.5% growth in Wildwood over the same period.
Springfield, MO
$53,430 (2019) → $61,420 (2025)
Wildwood, MO
$53,333 (2024) → $61,046 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, MO
Wildwood, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Springfield or Wildwood?
What is the hourly rate difference between Springfield and Wildwood?
Should I relocate from Springfield to Wildwood as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Springfield vs Wildwood?
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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