Columbia vs Springfield: Chiropractor Salary (2026)
Compare chiropractor salaries between Columbia, MO and Springfield, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, MO | Springfield, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,903▲ | $64,228 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.20▲ | $30.88 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,493 | $47,759▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $61,978▲ | $49,641 |
| 75th Percentile | $91,018▲ | $78,692 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $181,227▲ | $146,295 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 40▲ |
Verdict
Columbia, MO offers better overall compensation for chiropractors, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Columbia and Springfield is $675 (1.05%). Columbia's median is -19.89% compared to the US national median of $81,014.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $133,734,Springfield spans $98,536. Columbia 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, Columbia ($72,568 effective) pays 0.09% more than Springfield ($72,504 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,903/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($181,227)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $72,568)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, chiropractor salaries in Columbia grew 5.7% from 2023 to 2025, compared to 4.3% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Columbia, MO
$60,040 (2023) → $63,450 (2025)
Springfield, MO
$60,200 (2019) → $62,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, MO
Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays chiropractors more: Columbia or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Springfield as a chiropractor?
What do entry-level chiropractors earn in Columbia vs Springfield?
Related Comparisons
Written by Maria Gonzalez, D.C.
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience as a chiropractor. She specializes in sports injuries and practices in a private clinic. Maria also conducts workshops for community health education.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.29% 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 Maria Gonzalez, D.C., a licensed chiropractor with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov