Columbus vs Rome: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Columbus, GA and Rome, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, GA | Rome, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,718 | $106,261▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.42 | $51.09▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,144 | $79,570▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,724 | $86,948▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $121,630 | $126,272▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,596▲ | $126,897 |
| Total Employed | 200▲ | 130 |
Verdict
Columbus and Rome are closely matched on overall physical therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Rome is $5,543 (5.50%). Rome's median is +0.92% 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,Rome spans $47,327. 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, Rome ($117,857 effective) pays 4.49% 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 Rome if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,261/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,857)
- ✓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 34.1% growth in Rome over the same period.
Columbus, GA
$95,380 (2019) → $98,300 (2025)
Rome, GA
$77,320 (2019) → $103,710 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Columbus or Rome?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Rome?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Rome as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Columbus vs Rome?
Related Comparisons
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