Apple Valley vs Rochester: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Apple Valley, MN and Rochester, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Apple Valley, MN | Rochester, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,699▲ | $87,601 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.16▲ | $42.11 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,591 | $84,396▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $72,161 | $86,467▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $103,653 | $104,410▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,830▲ | $112,469 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 300▲ |
Verdict
Apple Valley, MN offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Apple Valley and Rochester is $98 (0.11%). Apple Valley's median is -15.18% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Apple Valley spans $50,239,Rochester spans $28,073. Apple Valley 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, Rochester ($96,455 effective) pays 8.33% more than Apple Valley ($89,035 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Apple Valley if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,699/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,830)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,455)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Apple Valley grew 1.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.5% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Apple Valley, MN
$84,039 (2024) → $85,095 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$73,620 (2019) → $85,000 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Apple Valley, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Apple Valley or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Apple Valley and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Apple Valley to Rochester as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Apple Valley vs Rochester?
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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