Elmhurst vs Springfield: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Elmhurst, IL and Springfield, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Elmhurst, IL | Springfield, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,463 | $118,843▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.85 | $57.13▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,832 | $83,023▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,532 | $104,233▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $112,288 | $129,899▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $122,173 | $151,016▲ |
| Total Employed | 9 | 150▲ |
Verdict
Springfield, IL offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Elmhurst.
The salary gap between Elmhurst and Springfield is $21,380 (21.94%). Springfield's median is +12.87% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Elmhurst spans $46,341,Springfield spans $67,993. Springfield 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, Springfield ($128,140 effective) pays 27.66% more than Elmhurst ($100,374 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Elmhurst if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($118,843/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($151,016)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $128,140)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Elmhurst grew 7.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 38.0% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Elmhurst, IL
$88,181 (2024) → $95,123 (2025)
Springfield, IL
$84,040 (2019) → $115,990 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Elmhurst, IL
Springfield, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Elmhurst or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Elmhurst and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Elmhurst to Springfield as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Elmhurst vs Springfield?
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