In Detroit, MI, Physical Therapists earn a median of $99,550 a year — about 1% below the U.S. median of $100,440. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #34.
What that pay is worth in Detroit
Local prices run 100 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $96,970 salary is about break-even with the national average ($96,682 adjusted).
Can Physical Therapists afford a home in Detroit?
A typical Detroit home runs about $76,800 — 0.8 times the average Physical Therapist salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,034/mo takes roughly 13% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Physical Therapist pay ladder in Detroit
Entry-level (10th percentile) Physical Therapists earn about $76,060; the top 10% reach $118,400 — a $42,340 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Physical Therapist job market in Detroit
Detroit employs roughly 2,960 Physical Therapists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Detroit with other cities
See the full Physical Therapist salary by city ranking to weigh Detroit against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Physical Therapists make in Detroit?
The average Physical Therapist in Detroit, MI earns about $96,970 per year, 3.5% below the national average of $100,440.
What is the take-home pay for Physical Therapists in Detroit after taxes?
After federal and MI taxes, this $96,970 salary is worth about $72,927 a year - roughly $6,077 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 25%.
What do the highest-paid Physical Therapists earn in Detroit?
The top 10% of Physical Therapists in Detroit earn about $118,400 a year, versus about $76,060 for the bottom 10%.
Can Physical Therapists afford a home in Detroit?
A typical Detroit home runs about $76,800 - roughly 0.8x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.