Albuquerque vs Roswell: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Albuquerque, NM and Roswell, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albuquerque, NM | Roswell, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,248 | $65,052▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.44 | $31.27▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $35,452 | $45,608▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $45,355 | $56,383▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $78,229▲ | $73,556 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $85,985▲ | $81,544 |
| Total Employed | 370▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Albuquerque and Roswell are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Albuquerque and Roswell is $3,804 (6.21%). Roswell's median is -7.40% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albuquerque spans $50,533,Roswell spans $35,936. Albuquerque 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, Roswell ($68,911 effective) pays 7.50% more than Albuquerque ($64,103 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albuquerque if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($85,985)
- ✓Larger job market (370 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose Roswell if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($65,052/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,911)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Albuquerque grew 0.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 0.6% growth in Roswell over the same period.
Albuquerque, NM
$59,560 (2019) → $59,620 (2025)
Roswell, NM
$62,971 (2024) → $63,323 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albuquerque, NM
Roswell, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Albuquerque or Roswell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Albuquerque and Roswell?
Should I relocate from Albuquerque to Roswell as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Albuquerque vs Roswell?
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