Kingsport vs Memphis: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Kingsport, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kingsport, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,330▲ | $63,241 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.93▲ | $30.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,807▲ | $48,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,381▲ | $57,703 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,143 | $78,198▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $83,006▲ | $82,461 |
| Total Employed | 160 | 490▲ |
Verdict
Kingsport, TN offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Memphis.
The salary gap between Kingsport and Memphis is $1,089 (1.72%). Kingsport's median is -8.42% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kingsport spans $34,199,Memphis spans $33,901. Kingsport 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, Kingsport ($74,416 effective) pays 8.47% 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 Kingsport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,330/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($83,006)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $74,416)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓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 Kingsport grew 11.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.8% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Kingsport, TN
$56,230 (2019) → $62,620 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$54,100 (2019) → $61,560 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kingsport, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Kingsport or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kingsport and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Kingsport to Memphis as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Kingsport 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