Columbus vs Dayton: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer salaries between Columbus, OH and Dayton, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Dayton, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,264 | $66,430▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.90 | $31.93▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,870 | $56,071▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $58,415 | $61,826▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $71,033▲ | $68,418 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $79,194▲ | $74,549 |
| Total Employed | 430▲ | 150 |
Verdict
Columbus and Dayton are closely matched on overall athletic trainer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Dayton is $2,166 (3.37%). Dayton's median is +1.55% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $26,324,Dayton spans $18,478. Columbus 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, Dayton ($71,666 effective) pays 6.47% more than Columbus ($67,314 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($79,194)
- ✓Larger job market (430 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Dayton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($66,430/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $71,666)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in Columbus grew 28.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 36.9% growth in Dayton over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$48,000 (2019) → $61,420 (2025)
Dayton, OH
$46,370 (2019) → $63,490 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Dayton, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: Columbus or Dayton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Dayton?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Dayton as a athletic trainer?
What do entry-level athletic trainers earn in Columbus vs Dayton?
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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