Indianapolis vs Lafayette: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Indianapolis, IN and Lafayette, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Indianapolis, IN | Lafayette, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $70,935▲ | $63,723 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.11▲ | $30.63 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,958▲ | $36,695 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,706▲ | $45,263 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,188▲ | $75,989 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $83,006▲ | $78,804 |
| Total Employed | 1,040▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Indianapolis, IN offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lafayette.
The salary gap between Indianapolis and Lafayette is $7,212 (11.32%). Indianapolis's median is +0.98% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Indianapolis spans $33,048,Lafayette spans $42,109. Lafayette 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, Indianapolis ($74,125 effective) pays 8.68% more than Lafayette ($68,204 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Indianapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($70,935/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($83,006)
- ✓Larger job market (1,040 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $74,125)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Lafayette if…
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Indianapolis grew 18.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.4% growth in Lafayette over the same period.
Indianapolis, IN
$58,440 (2019) → $69,050 (2025)
Lafayette, IN
$57,200 (2019) → $62,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
Lafayette, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Indianapolis or Lafayette?
What is the hourly rate difference between Indianapolis and Lafayette?
Should I relocate from Indianapolis to Lafayette as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Indianapolis vs Lafayette?
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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