Scottsdale vs Tucson: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Scottsdale, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Scottsdale, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $111,455▲ | $104,940 |
| Hourly Rate | $53.59▲ | $50.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,758 | $82,388▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $90,441▲ | $89,130 |
| 75th Percentile | $135,814▲ | $121,815 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $150,748▲ | $139,940 |
| Total Employed | 44 | 660▲ |
Verdict
Scottsdale, AZ offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tucson.
The salary gap between Scottsdale and Tucson is $6,515 (6.21%). Scottsdale's median is +5.86% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Scottsdale spans $70,990,Tucson spans $57,552. Scottsdale 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, Scottsdale ($113,152 effective) pays 4.48% more than Tucson ($108,302 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Scottsdale if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($111,455/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($150,748)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $113,152)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Larger job market (660 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Scottsdale grew 10.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 17.1% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Scottsdale, AZ
$98,614 (2024) → $108,779 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$87,480 (2019) → $102,420 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Scottsdale, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Scottsdale or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Scottsdale and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Scottsdale to Tucson as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Scottsdale vs Tucson?
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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