Bridgeport vs Stamford: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Bridgeport, CT and Stamford, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bridgeport, CT | Stamford, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,747▲ | $106,303 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.80▲ | $51.11 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,046▲ | $80,443 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,753▲ | $89,218 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,020 | $127,136▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,229 | $142,310▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,030▲ | 27 |
Verdict
Bridgeport, CT offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Stamford.
The salary gap between Bridgeport and Stamford is $1,444 (1.36%). Bridgeport's median is +2.34% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bridgeport spans $52,183,Stamford spans $61,867. Stamford has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced physical therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bridgeport ($100,826 effective) pays 2.34% more than Stamford ($98,520 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bridgeport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,747/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,030 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,826)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Stamford if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($142,310)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Bridgeport grew 5.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -8.1% growth in Stamford over the same period.
Bridgeport, CT
$100,160 (2019) → $105,160 (2025)
Stamford, CT
$112,895 (2024) → $103,751 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bridgeport, CT
Stamford, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Bridgeport or Stamford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bridgeport and Stamford?
Should I relocate from Bridgeport to Stamford 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