Atlanta vs Canton: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Atlanta, GA and Canton, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Canton, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $76,770▲ | $64,538 |
| Hourly Rate | $36.91▲ | $31.02 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,585 | $46,661▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $60,138▲ | $57,184 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,550▲ | $74,086 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,056▲ | $83,043 |
| Total Employed | 1,370▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Atlanta, GA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Canton.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Canton is $12,232 (18.95%). Atlanta's median is +9.29% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlanta spans $47,471,Canton spans $36,382. Atlanta 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, Atlanta ($76,725 effective) pays 10.68% more than Canton ($69,321 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($76,770/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,056)
- ✓Larger job market (1,370 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $76,725)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Canton if…
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Atlanta grew 31.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.2% growth in Canton over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$56,820 (2019) → $74,730 (2025)
Canton, GA
$56,476 (2024) → $62,823 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Canton, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Atlanta or Canton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlanta and Canton?
Should I relocate from Atlanta to Canton as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Atlanta vs Canton?
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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