Downey vs Los Angeles: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Downey, CA and Los Angeles, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Downey, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,462▲ | $84,382 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.09▲ | $40.57 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $55,457 | $61,340▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $74,568 | $79,739▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,340▲ | $92,395 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $116,877▲ | $103,819 |
| Total Employed | 22 | 3,730▲ |
Verdict
Downey, CA offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Los Angeles.
The salary gap between Downey and Los Angeles is $1,080 (1.28%). Downey's median is +21.66% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Downey spans $61,420,Los Angeles spans $42,479. Downey 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, Downey ($75,563 effective) pays 1.70% more than Los Angeles ($74,302 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Downey if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($85,462/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($116,877)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,563)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Larger job market (3,730 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Downey grew -6.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.6% growth in Los Angeles over the same period.
Downey, CA
$89,325 (2024) → $83,191 (2025)
Los Angeles, CA
$71,690 (2019) → $82,140 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Downey, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Downey or Los Angeles?
What is the hourly rate difference between Downey and Los Angeles?
Should I relocate from Downey to Los Angeles as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Downey vs Los Angeles?
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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