Athens vs Columbus: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Athens, GA and Columbus, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Athens, GA | Columbus, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,709▲ | $64,114 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.56▲ | $30.83 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $43,578▲ | $29,545 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,145▲ | $49,721 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,198▲ | $79,287 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,704▲ | $84,187 |
| Total Employed | 70 | 100▲ |
Verdict
Athens, GA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Athens and Columbus is $3,595 (5.61%). Athens's median is -3.61% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Athens spans $49,126,Columbus spans $54,642. Columbus 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, Athens ($72,538 effective) pays 1.03% more than Columbus ($71,799 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Athens if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,709/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,704)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $72,538)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Athens grew 6.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.4% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Athens, GA
$62,160 (2019) → $65,910 (2025)
Columbus, GA
$57,570 (2019) → $62,410 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Athens, GA
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Athens or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Athens and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Athens to Columbus as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Athens vs Columbus?
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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