Sanford vs Tampa: Physical Therapist Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist assistant salaries between Sanford, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Sanford, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $74,492▲ | $72,086 |
| Hourly Rate | $35.81▲ | $34.65 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $51,355 | $60,785▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $64,341 | $64,494▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $84,528▲ | $78,568 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $94,989▲ | $84,136 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 1,340▲ |
Verdict
Sanford, FL offers better overall compensation for physical therapist assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tampa.
The salary gap between Sanford and Tampa is $2,406 (3.34%). Sanford's median is +6.04% compared to the US national median of $70,247.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Sanford spans $43,634,Tampa spans $23,351. Sanford 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, Sanford ($73,901 effective) pays 3.43% more than Tampa ($71,450 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Sanford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($74,492/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($94,989)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $73,901)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,340 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist assistant salaries in Sanford grew 8.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 7.2% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Sanford, FL
$67,162 (2024) → $72,512 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$65,480 (2019) → $70,170 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sanford, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
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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