Average Physical Therapists Salary in Ames, IA
The average salary for Physical Therapistss in Ames, IA is $87,360. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Ames, IA may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $87,360 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 13.9% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $112,240.
- Outlook: The current demand for Physical Therapistss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 110 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Ames, IA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Physical Therapists in Ames, IA earns-14.6%below the national average.
$42
$1,680
$7,280
Physical Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Physical Therapists salaries in Ames, IA have seen a slight adjustment of -13.9%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Physical Therapists Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
The earning potential for Physical Therapistss in Ames, IA varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $72,760, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $112,240.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $72,760 | $35 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $65,520 | $31.5 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $86,440 | $41.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $109,200 | $52.5 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $112,240 | $54 |
Detailed Physical Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$87,360
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$87,360
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Ames, IA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $87,360 to $87,360.
Job Market Context
110
Total Jobs
1.884
Per 1K Jobs
1.17
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.17, Ames, IA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Physical Therapists roles compared to the national norm.
110 people work as Physical Therapists in Ames, IA.
1.884 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Physical Therapists positions — a typical concentration.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Physical Therapists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Physical Therapists Salary | $92,150↑ 5% | 21 mi |
| Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Physical Therapists Salary | $93,540↑ 7% | 21 mi |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Physical Therapists Salary | $92,630↑ 6% | 21 mi |
| Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Physical Therapists Salary | $89,460↑ 2% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Physical Therapists Salary | $96,430↑ 10% | 31 mi |
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
Hiring Physical Therapistss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Physical Therapists make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Physical Therapists in Ames, IA is $87,360. This typically ranges from $72,760 for entry-level positions to $112,240 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 14.6% lower than the national median of $102,240.
Is Ames, IA a good place for Physical Therapistss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Physical Therapists salary in Ames, IA is $87,360 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Ames, IA. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Physical Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in Ames, IA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Ames, IA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area ($92,150) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 110 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 1.884 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 Therapists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA