Rochester vs Rome: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Rochester, NY and Rome, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, NY | Rome, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $60,806 | $60,978▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.24 | $29.32▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,954▲ | $45,616 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,053▲ | $54,969 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,826 | $67,308▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $71,634 | $77,801▲ |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Rome, NY offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Rochester and Rome is $172 (0.28%). Rome's median is -13.19% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $20,680,Rome spans $32,185. Rome 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, Rochester ($62,664 effective) pays 19.10% more than Rome ($52,613 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $62,664)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rome if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($60,978/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($77,801)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Rochester grew 13.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -21.6% growth in Rome over the same period.
Rochester, NY
$52,390 (2019) → $59,190 (2025)
Rome, NY
$75,668 (2024) → $59,358 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapist assistants more: Rochester or Rome?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rochester and Rome?
Should I relocate from Rochester to Rome as a physical therapist assistant?
What do entry-level physical therapist assistants earn in Rochester vs Rome?
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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