Augusta vs Sandy Springs: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer salaries between Augusta, GA and Sandy Springs, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Augusta, GA | Sandy Springs, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $60,183 | $70,556▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $28.93 | $33.92▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,901▲ | $52,886 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,864 | $60,815▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $71,117 | $83,970▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,366▲ | $99,529 |
| Total Employed | 30▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Augusta and Sandy Springs are closely matched on overall athletic trainer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Augusta and Sandy Springs is $10,373 (17.24%). Sandy Springs's median is +7.86% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Augusta spans $48,465,Sandy Springs spans $46,643. Augusta 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, Sandy Springs ($75,785 effective) pays 15.73% more than Augusta ($65,485 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($101,366)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Sandy Springs if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($70,556/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,785)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in Augusta grew 34.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 30.3% growth in Sandy Springs over the same period.
Augusta, GA
$42,760 (2019) → $57,520 (2025)
Sandy Springs, GA
$51,770 (2024) → $67,434 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Augusta, GA
Sandy Springs, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: Augusta or Sandy Springs?
What is the hourly rate difference between Augusta and Sandy Springs?
Should I relocate from Augusta to Sandy Springs as a athletic trainer?
What do entry-level athletic trainers earn in Augusta vs Sandy Springs?
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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