Independence vs Springfield: Physician Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physician assistant salaries between Independence, MO and Springfield, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, MO | Springfield, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $143,117▲ | $133,562 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.81▲ | $64.21 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $106,994 | $113,838▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $128,096▲ | $123,974 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,526▲ | $157,470 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $211,371▲ | $164,651 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 300▲ |
Verdict
Independence, MO offers better overall compensation for physician assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Independence and Springfield is $9,555 (7.15%). Independence's median is +1.94% compared to the US national median of $140,391.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $104,377,Springfield spans $50,813. Independence 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, Independence ($159,729 effective) pays 5.94% more than Springfield ($150,773 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,117/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($211,371)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $159,729)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physician assistant salaries in Independence grew 28.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.0% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Independence, MO
$107,900 (2024) → $138,518 (2025)
Springfield, MO
$97,960 (2019) → $129,270 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, MO
Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physician assistants more: Independence or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Independence to Springfield as a physician assistant?
What do entry-level physician assistants earn in Independence vs Springfield?
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Written by Jessica Tran, MPAS, PA-C
Career Analyst
Jessica has 10 years of experience as a physician assistant. Her specialty is cardiology in an outpatient setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.32% 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 Jessica Tran, MPAS, PA-C, a licensed physician assistant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov