Allentown vs Altoona: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Allentown, PA and Altoona, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Allentown, PA | Altoona, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,452▲ | $89,559 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.78▲ | $43.06 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,141▲ | $56,662 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,396▲ | $76,429 |
| 75th Percentile | $123,641▲ | $113,139 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $137,936▲ | $119,127 |
| Total Employed | 470▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Allentown, PA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Altoona.
The salary gap between Allentown and Altoona is $11,893 (13.28%). Allentown's median is -1.88% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Allentown spans $62,795,Altoona spans $62,465. Allentown 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, Allentown ($101,484 effective) pays 1.43% more than Altoona ($100,058 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Allentown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,452/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,936)
- ✓Larger job market (470 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,484)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Altoona if…
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Allentown grew 26.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 23.3% growth in Altoona over the same period.
Allentown, PA
$77,850 (2019) → $98,440 (2025)
Altoona, PA
$70,460 (2019) → $86,900 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Allentown, PA
Altoona, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Allentown or Altoona?
What is the hourly rate difference between Allentown and Altoona?
Should I relocate from Allentown to Altoona as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Allentown vs Altoona?
Related Comparisons
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