Ann Arbor vs Detroit: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Detroit, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Detroit, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,871 | $63,919▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.22 | $30.74▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,882▲ | $30,028 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,871▲ | $40,383 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,432▲ | $66,569 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,389 | $82,687▲ |
| Total Employed | 230 | 1,880▲ |
Verdict
Detroit, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ann Arbor.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Detroit is $1,048 (1.67%). Detroit's median is -9.01% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $28,507,Detroit spans $52,659. Detroit 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, Detroit ($63,729 effective) pays 2.26% more than Ann Arbor ($62,323 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,919/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($82,687)
- ✓Larger job market (1,880 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $63,729)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Ann Arbor grew 11.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.2% growth in Detroit over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$55,110 (2019) → $61,200 (2025)
Detroit, MI
$54,030 (2019) → $62,220 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Detroit, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Ann Arbor or Detroit?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ann Arbor and Detroit?
Should I relocate from Ann Arbor to Detroit as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Ann Arbor vs Detroit?
Related Comparisons
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