Alexandria vs Slidell: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Alexandria, LA and Slidell, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Alexandria, LA | Slidell, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,504▲ | $87,282 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.80▲ | $41.97 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,021▲ | $54,230 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,028▲ | $63,124 |
| 75th Percentile | $125,506▲ | $106,162 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $142,748▲ | $116,138 |
| Total Employed | 100 | 180▲ |
Verdict
Alexandria, LA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Slidell.
The salary gap between Alexandria and Slidell is $14,222 (16.29%). Alexandria's median is -1.83% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Alexandria spans $79,727,Slidell spans $61,908. Alexandria 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, Alexandria ($118,460 effective) pays 25.85% more than Slidell ($94,129 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Alexandria if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,504/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($142,748)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $118,460)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Slidell if…
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Alexandria grew 20.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -8.8% growth in Slidell over the same period.
Alexandria, LA
$81,960 (2019) → $98,490 (2025)
Slidell, LA
$92,880 (2024) → $84,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Alexandria, LA
Slidell, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Alexandria or Slidell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Alexandria and Slidell?
Should I relocate from Alexandria to Slidell as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Alexandria vs Slidell?
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