Elgin vs Rockford: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Elgin, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Elgin, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,355▲ | $103,833 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.61▲ | $49.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,670▲ | $77,818 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,345 | $102,440▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $128,894▲ | $126,292 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $144,978▲ | $130,954 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 190▲ |
Verdict
Elgin, IL offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rockford.
The salary gap between Elgin and Rockford is $3,522 (3.39%). Elgin's median is +1.96% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Elgin spans $63,308,Rockford spans $53,136. Elgin 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, Rockford ($112,673 effective) pays 1.91% more than Elgin ($110,561 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Elgin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,355/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($144,978)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,673)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Elgin grew 12.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.5% growth in Rockford over the same period.
Elgin, IL
$93,308 (2024) → $104,777 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$92,550 (2019) → $101,340 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Elgin or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Elgin and Rockford?
Should I relocate from Elgin to Rockford as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Elgin vs Rockford?
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