Munster vs South Bend: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Munster, IN and South Bend, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Munster, IN | South Bend, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $92,799 | $100,687▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.61 | $48.40▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,076 | $79,991▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,239 | $86,282▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $107,745 | $113,198▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $116,316 | $127,286▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 200▲ |
Verdict
South Bend, IN offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Munster.
The salary gap between Munster and South Bend is $7,888 (8.50%). South Bend's median is -4.37% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Munster spans $41,240,South Bend spans $47,295. South Bend 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, South Bend ($108,431 effective) pays 6.68% more than Munster ($101,642 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Munster if…
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose South Bend if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,687/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($127,286)
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,431)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Munster grew 17.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.3% growth in South Bend over the same period.
Munster, IN
$77,286 (2024) → $90,571 (2025)
South Bend, IN
$84,500 (2019) → $98,270 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Munster, IN
South Bend, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Munster or South Bend?
What is the hourly rate difference between Munster and South Bend?
Should I relocate from Munster to South Bend as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Munster vs South Bend?
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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