Atlanta vs Athens: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Atlanta, GA and Athens, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Athens, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,408▲ | $104,173 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.60▲ | $50.08 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,944▲ | $74,564 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,518▲ | $80,624 |
| 75th Percentile | $126,733▲ | $110,254 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,019▲ | $125,476 |
| Total Employed | 2,120▲ | 90 |
Verdict
Atlanta, GA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Athens.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Athens is $5,235 (5.03%). Atlanta's median is +5.81% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlanta spans $56,075,Athens spans $50,912. Atlanta 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, Athens ($111,602 effective) pays 2.06% more than Atlanta ($109,345 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,408/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,019)
- ✓Larger job market (2,120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Athens if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,602)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Atlanta grew 19.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.7% growth in Athens over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$89,240 (2019) → $106,160 (2025)
Athens, GA
$77,960 (2019) → $101,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Athens, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Atlanta or Athens?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlanta and Athens?
Should I relocate from Atlanta to Athens as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Atlanta vs Athens?
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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