Amsterdam vs Buffalo: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer salaries between Amsterdam, NY and Buffalo, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Amsterdam, NY | Buffalo, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $60,932▲ | $59,022 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.30▲ | $28.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,215▲ | $51,185 |
| 25th Percentile | $56,640▲ | $52,367 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,178▲ | $68,826 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $78,507 | $100,821▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Amsterdam and Buffalo are closely matched on overall athletic trainer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Amsterdam and Buffalo is $1,910 (3.24%). Amsterdam's median is -6.85% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Amsterdam spans $26,292,Buffalo spans $49,636. Buffalo has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced athletic trainers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Buffalo ($61,581 effective) pays 17.14% more than Amsterdam ($52,573 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Amsterdam if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($60,932/year)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Buffalo if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($100,821)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,581)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in Amsterdam grew -18.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 25.1% growth in Buffalo over the same period.
Amsterdam, NY
$71,556 (2024) → $58,236 (2025)
Buffalo, NY
$45,100 (2019) → $56,410 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Amsterdam, NY
Buffalo, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: Amsterdam or Buffalo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Amsterdam and Buffalo?
Should I relocate from Amsterdam to Buffalo as a athletic trainer?
What do entry-level athletic trainers earn in Amsterdam vs Buffalo?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, MS, ATC
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in athletic training. She specializes in injury prevention and rehabilitation. She has worked at several high schools and collegiate athletic programs.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.63% 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 Jordan Lee, MS, ATC, a licensed athletic trainer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov