Akron vs Cleveland: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Akron, OH and Cleveland, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Akron, OH | Cleveland, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,535 | $106,214▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.82 | $51.07▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,402 | $79,614▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,643 | $86,065▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $115,242▲ | $114,613 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,857 | $127,939▲ |
| Total Employed | 430 | 1,200▲ |
Verdict
Cleveland, OH offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Akron.
The salary gap between Akron and Cleveland is $4,679 (4.61%). Cleveland's median is +2.72% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Akron spans $60,455,Cleveland spans $48,325. Akron 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, Cleveland ($113,086 effective) pays 3.99% more than Akron ($108,745 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Akron if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Cleveland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,214/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($127,939)
- ✓Larger job market (1,200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $113,086)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Akron grew 13.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.7% growth in Cleveland over the same period.
Akron, OH
$86,470 (2019) → $98,520 (2025)
Cleveland, OH
$89,830 (2019) → $103,060 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cleveland, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Akron or Cleveland?
What is the hourly rate difference between Akron and Cleveland?
Should I relocate from Akron to Cleveland as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Akron vs Cleveland?
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Written by Jordan Miller, OTR/L
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in occupational therapy. They specialize in pediatrics and work in a rehabilitation clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.06% 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 Miller, OTR/L, a licensed occupational therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov