Grand Rapids vs Livonia: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Livonia, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Livonia, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,538 | $102,583▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.82 | $49.31▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,650▲ | $80,244 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,482 | $87,987▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $109,448 | $118,524▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,538 | $130,107▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,460▲ | 21 |
Verdict
Livonia, MI offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Grand Rapids.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Livonia is $1,045 (1.03%). Livonia's median is -2.57% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Grand Rapids spans $29,888,Livonia spans $49,863. Livonia 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, Livonia ($110,068 effective) pays 3.57% 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 Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,460 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Livonia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,583/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,107)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,068)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Grand Rapids grew 14.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.5% growth in Livonia over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$86,960 (2019) → $99,100 (2025)
Livonia, MI
$84,462 (2024) → $100,120 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Livonia, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Grand Rapids or Livonia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Livonia?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Livonia as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Grand Rapids vs Livonia?
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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