Bolingbrook vs Rockford: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Bolingbrook, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bolingbrook, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,018▲ | $103,833 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.01▲ | $49.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,137 | $77,818▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $90,036 | $102,440▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $121,001 | $126,292▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $133,291▲ | $130,954 |
| Total Employed | 19 | 190▲ |
Verdict
Bolingbrook, IL offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rockford.
The salary gap between Bolingbrook and Rockford is $185 (0.18%). Bolingbrook's median is -1.21% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bolingbrook spans $59,154,Rockford spans $53,136. Bolingbrook 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, Rockford ($112,673 effective) pays 5.18% more than Bolingbrook ($107,125 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bolingbrook if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,018/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($133,291)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,673)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Bolingbrook grew 7.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.5% growth in Rockford over the same period.
Bolingbrook, IL
$94,111 (2024) → $101,521 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$92,550 (2019) → $101,340 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bolingbrook, IL
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Bolingbrook or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bolingbrook and Rockford?
Should I relocate from Bolingbrook to Rockford as a physical therapist?
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Written by Alex Morgan, DPT
Career Analyst
Alex Morgan has over 10 years of experience in physical therapy. They specialize in orthopedic rehabilitation. Alex works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.46% 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 Alex Morgan, DPT, a licensed physical therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov