New York vs Rochester: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer salaries between New York, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,042▲ | $63,238 |
| Hourly Rate | $38.48▲ | $30.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $54,449▲ | $52,859 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,865▲ | $56,437 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,022▲ | $68,627 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,531▲ | $90,243 |
| Total Employed | 1,330▲ | 140 |
Verdict
New York, NY offers better overall compensation for athletic trainers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between New York and Rochester is $16,804 (26.57%). New York's median is +22.36% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New York spans $63,082,Rochester spans $37,384. New York 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, New York ($71,109 effective) pays 9.11% more than Rochester ($65,170 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New York if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($80,042/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,531)
- ✓Larger job market (1,330 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $71,109)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in New York grew 49.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 26.6% growth in Rochester over the same period.
New York, NY
$51,150 (2019) → $76,500 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$47,730 (2019) → $60,440 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New York, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: New York or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between New York and Rochester?
Should I relocate from New York to Rochester as a athletic trainer?
What do entry-level athletic trainers earn in New York vs Rochester?
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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