Lawrence vs Wichita: Physician Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physician assistant salaries between Lawrence, KS and Wichita, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lawrence, KS | Wichita, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,534▲ | $125,678 |
| Hourly Rate | $62.76▲ | $60.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $106,926▲ | $99,084 |
| 25th Percentile | $120,874▲ | $103,010 |
| 75th Percentile | $130,534 | $135,814▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $142,819 | $167,120▲ |
| Total Employed | 30 | 240▲ |
Verdict
Lawrence and Wichita are closely matched on overall physician assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Lawrence and Wichita is $4,856 (3.86%). Lawrence's median is -7.02% compared to the US national median of $140,391.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lawrence spans $35,893,Wichita spans $68,036. Wichita has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced physician assistants.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Lawrence ($144,647 effective) pays 2.37% more than Wichita ($141,297 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lawrence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($130,534/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,647)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Wichita if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($167,120)
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physician assistant salaries in Lawrence grew 19.7% from 2022 to 2025, compared to 22.6% growth in Wichita over the same period.
Lawrence, KS
$105,540 (2022) → $126,340 (2025)
Wichita, KS
$99,230 (2019) → $121,640 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lawrence, KS
Wichita, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physician assistants more: Lawrence or Wichita?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lawrence and Wichita?
Should I relocate from Lawrence to Wichita as a physician assistant?
What do entry-level physician assistants earn in Lawrence vs Wichita?
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