New Haven vs Shelton: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between New Haven, CT and Shelton, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Haven, CT | Shelton, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $78,219▲ | $78,127 |
| Hourly Rate | $37.61▲ | $37.56 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $42,366 | $55,981▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $68,973▲ | $68,607 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,287 | $89,087▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,872 | $96,782▲ |
| Total Employed | 170▲ | 10 |
Verdict
New Haven, CT offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Shelton.
The salary gap between New Haven and Shelton is $92 (0.12%). New Haven's median is +11.35% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Haven spans $40,506,Shelton spans $40,801. Shelton 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, New Haven ($74,808 effective) pays 3.32% more than Shelton ($72,407 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Haven if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($78,219/year)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $74,808)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Shelton if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($96,782)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in New Haven grew 23.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -1.1% growth in Shelton over the same period.
New Haven, CT
$61,770 (2019) → $76,140 (2025)
Shelton, CT
$76,916 (2024) → $76,051 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Haven, CT
Shelton, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: New Haven or Shelton?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Haven and Shelton?
Should I relocate from New Haven to Shelton as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in New Haven vs Shelton?
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