Canton vs Columbus: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Canton, GA and Columbus, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Canton, GA | Columbus, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,538▲ | $64,114 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.02▲ | $30.83 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,661▲ | $29,545 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,184▲ | $49,721 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,086 | $79,287▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $83,043 | $84,187▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 100▲ |
Verdict
Canton and Columbus are closely matched on overall physical therapist assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Canton and Columbus is $424 (0.66%). Canton's median is -8.13% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Canton spans $36,382,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, Columbus ($71,799 effective) pays 3.58% 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 Canton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,538/year)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($84,187)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $71,799)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Canton grew 11.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 8.4% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Canton, GA
$56,476 (2024) → $62,823 (2025)
Columbus, GA
$57,570 (2019) → $62,410 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Canton, GA
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Canton or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Canton and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Canton to Columbus as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Canton 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