Bridgeport vs West Haven: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Bridgeport, CT and West Haven, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bridgeport, CT | West Haven, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,747▲ | $103,145 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.80▲ | $49.59 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,046▲ | $79,826 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,753▲ | $87,508 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,020 | $122,302▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,229▲ | $135,506 |
| Total Employed | 1,030▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Bridgeport, CT offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to West Haven.
The salary gap between Bridgeport and West Haven is $4,602 (4.46%). 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,West Haven spans $55,680. West Haven 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 5.47% more than West Haven ($95,593 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)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,229)
- ✓Larger job market (1,030 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,826)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose West Haven if…
- ✓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 -9.1% growth in West Haven over the same period.
Bridgeport, CT
$100,160 (2019) → $105,160 (2025)
West Haven, CT
$110,731 (2024) → $100,669 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bridgeport, CT
West Haven, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Bridgeport or West Haven?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bridgeport and West Haven?
Should I relocate from Bridgeport to West Haven as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Bridgeport vs West Haven?
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