Average Physical Therapist Assistants Salary in Albuquerque, NM
Physical Therapist Assistants in Albuquerque, NM, earn an average annual salary of $59,380. This figure is notably below the national average of $67,190, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially lower demand contribute to this compensation difference. Understanding these local factors is crucial for aspiring and current PTAs in the region.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $59,380 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 10.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $76,290.
- Outlook: Albuquerque's Physical Therapist Assistant job market shows a moderate level of concentration, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.17, slightly above the national average. With a local workforce of 330 professionals, this suggests a stable, albeit not rapidly expanding, demand for PTAs in the area. The presence of 0.822 jobs per 1,000 workers further supports a consistent need for these healthcare professionals.
Salary Overview
The average Physical Therapist Assistants in Albuquerque, NM earns-11.6%below the national average.
$28.6
$1,142
$4,948
Physical Therapist Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Albuquerque is not provided, the physical therapy field nationally has experienced steady growth over the past four years, driven by an aging population and increased awareness of rehabilitation benefits. It is reasonable to assume that salaries for Physical Therapist Assistants in Albuquerque have mirrored this trend, likely seeing incremental increases as demand for their services continues.
Physical Therapist Assistants Salary Distribution in Albuquerque, NM
Salary progression for Physical Therapist Assistants in Albuquerque, NM, typically correlates with experience. Entry-level positions will likely fall towards the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or supervisory roles can command significantly higher salaries. The gap between entry-level and senior-level compensation reflects the career advancement opportunities and increased responsibilities available within the profession.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $35,380 | $17 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $44,535 | $21.4 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $58,610 | $28.2 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $74,225 | $35.7 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $76,290 | $36.7 |
Detailed Physical Therapist Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$59,380
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$59,380
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $59,380 in Albuquerque, NM, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a PTA's salary in Albuquerque is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial standing relative to the cost of goods and services.
Job Market Context
330
Total Jobs
0.822
Per 1K Jobs
1.17
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.17, Albuquerque, NM has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Physical Therapist Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
With a Location Quotient of 1.17, Albuquerque demonstrates a slightly higher concentration of Physical Therapist Assistants compared to the national average. This indicates a healthy, perhaps even slightly competitive, job market where demand is present and potentially growing, but not oversaturated. The number of PTAs per capita suggests a solid, established presence of the profession within the local healthcare ecosystem.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Physical Therapist Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern New Mexico nonmetropolitan area Physical Therapist Assistants Salary | $60,520↑ 2% | 29 mi |
| Northern New Mexico nonmetropolitan area Physical Therapist Assistants Salary | $67,360↑ 13% | 29 mi |
| Santa Fe, NM Physical Therapist Assistants Salary | $66,130↑ 11% | 54 mi |
Comparing salaries near Albuquerque, NM
Hiring Physical Therapist Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Physical Therapist Assistants make in Albuquerque, NM?
The median annual salary for a Physical Therapist Assistants in Albuquerque, NM is $59,380. This typically ranges from $35,380 for entry-level positions to $76,290 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Albuquerque, NM is 11.6% lower than the national median of $67,190.
Is Albuquerque, NM a lucrative place for Physical Therapist Assistants?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to the national average.While the cost of living is average, the average salary for Physical Therapist Assistants in Albuquerque is below the national average. This suggests that while your money may go as far, your overall earnings will be less than the national benchmark.
Is Albuquerque, NM a good place to live for Physical Therapist Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Albuquerque, NM is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Albuquerque, NM?
Some top paying nearby cities include Eastern New Mexico nonmetropolitan area ($60,520) and Northern New Mexico nonmetropolitan area.
How does experience affect a Physical Therapist Assistant's salary in Albuquerque?
Experience is a key driver of salary increases for Physical Therapist Assistants in Albuquerque. Entry-level roles typically offer lower pay, while senior PTAs with extensive experience and specialized skills can earn substantially more, reflecting their value and expertise.
What is the job outlook for Physical Therapist Assistants in Albuquerque?
The job outlook appears stable, with a Location Quotient slightly above the national average and a consistent number of jobs per 1,000 workers, indicating steady demand within the local healthcare sector.
Is the cost of living in Albuquerque high?
No, Albuquerque's cost of living is right at the national average, with an index of 100. This means that expenses for housing, utilities, and daily necessities are comparable to the U.S. average.
How does Albuquerque's PTA salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Physical Therapist Assistants in Albuquerque ($59,380) is lower than the national average ($67,190), indicating a pay differential specific to the local market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 330 employees in the Albuquerque, NM area with a job density of 0.822 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Physical Therapist Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Albuquerque, NM