Columbus vs Macon: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Columbus, GA and Macon, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, GA | Macon, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,718 | $107,071▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.42 | $51.48▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,144 | $79,335▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,724 | $95,544▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $121,630 | $126,118▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,596▲ | $130,073 |
| Total Employed | 200▲ | 130 |
Verdict
Columbus and Macon are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Macon is $6,353 (6.31%). Macon's median is +1.69% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $55,452,Macon spans $50,738. Columbus 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, Macon ($120,946 effective) pays 7.23% more than Columbus ($112,791 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,596)
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Macon if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,071/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $120,946)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Columbus grew 3.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 31.8% growth in Macon over the same period.
Columbus, GA
$95,380 (2019) → $98,300 (2025)
Macon, GA
$79,300 (2019) → $104,500 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Columbus or Macon?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Macon?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Macon as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Columbus vs Macon?
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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