East Lansing vs Grand Rapids: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between East Lansing, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | East Lansing, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,894 | $101,538▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.50 | $48.82▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,217 | $81,650▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $87,442▲ | $85,482 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,401▲ | $109,448 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $133,239▲ | $111,538 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 1,460▲ |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to East Lansing.
The salary gap between East Lansing and Grand Rapids is $644 (0.64%). Grand Rapids's median is -3.56% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in East Lansing spans $52,022,Grand Rapids spans $29,888. East Lansing 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, East Lansing ($108,255 effective) pays 1.87% more than Grand Rapids ($106,271 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose East Lansing if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($133,239)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,255)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,538/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,460 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in East Lansing grew 19.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.0% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
East Lansing, MI
$82,470 (2024) → $98,472 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$86,960 (2019) → $99,100 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
East Lansing, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: East Lansing or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between East Lansing and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from East Lansing to Grand Rapids as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in East Lansing vs Grand Rapids?
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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