176 | Cost of Living vs Salary: Why ‘High Pay’ Might Be Misleading for PAs

Not all six-figure physician associate / physician assistant salaries are created equal. In this episode, we’re breaking down the difference between income and purchasing power, and why cost of living plays a critical role in your financial trajectory as a PA.

You’ll learn how to properly evaluate your compensation, avoid common mistakes like chasing the highest salary, and understand how factors like housing, taxes, and lifestyle impact your ability to save and invest. We’ll also explore how two similar jobs can lead to very different financial outcomes depending on where you live.

This episode is a must-listen if you want to make more intentional career decisions, reduce financial stress, and build a path toward financial independence that actually aligns with your life.

Sponsor Mentioned:

You’ve probably heard of the AAPA Salary Report, but it’s more than just a list of numbers.

It’s an interactive tool that allows you to compare PA salaries and bonuses based on:

State

Specialty

Years of experience

Practice setting

Cost of living

In just a few clicks, you can see how your salary stacks up and download data to use in conversations with your employer. 👉 Learn more at: aapa.org

🎙️ About the Podcast PA the FI Way is for PAs who want more control over their time, money, and career.

We talk about:

Financial independence

Burnout prevention

Career strategy

Building a life that actually feels sustainable

If you're early in your financial independence journey, make sure to download your free copy of the PA the FI Way Beginner’s Workbook.

Inside you’ll learn how to:

✔ Define your “why” for financial independence
✔ Track your spending and build awareness
✔ Start aligning your money with what matters most

Download it here: https://www.pathefiway.com/download-the-free-pa-the-fi-way-beginner-s-workbook 

Website / Blog: pathefiway.com

Follow PA the FI Way on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/

Connect with Kat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katarina-kat-astrup-mspas-pa-c-175848255/

Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathefiway 

Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway

Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway