Jackson vs Memphis: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Jackson, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jackson, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,645 | $63,241▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.12 | $30.41▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $51,796▲ | $48,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,645▲ | $57,703 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,787 | $78,198▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $81,681 | $82,461▲ |
| Total Employed | 120 | 490▲ |
Verdict
Memphis, TN offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Jackson.
The salary gap between Jackson and Memphis is $596 (0.95%). Memphis's median is -9.97% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jackson spans $29,885,Memphis spans $33,901. Memphis 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, Jackson ($73,250 effective) pays 6.77% more than Memphis ($68,607 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $73,250)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,241/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($82,461)
- ✓Larger job market (490 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Jackson grew -0.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.8% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Jackson, TN
$61,130 (2019) → $60,980 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$54,100 (2019) → $61,560 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jackson, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Jackson or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jackson and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Jackson to Memphis as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Jackson vs Memphis?
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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