Augusta vs Kennesaw: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Augusta, GA and Kennesaw, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Augusta, GA | Kennesaw, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,936▲ | $97,395 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.49▲ | $46.82 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,315▲ | $73,589 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,684▲ | $79,783 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,460 | $111,688▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $121,693 | $123,786▲ |
| Total Employed | 260▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Augusta, GA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Kennesaw.
The salary gap between Augusta and Kennesaw is $5,541 (5.69%). Augusta's median is -0.45% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Augusta spans $43,378,Kennesaw spans $50,197. Kennesaw has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced occupational therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Augusta ($112,005 effective) pays 7.07% more than Kennesaw ($104,613 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,936/year)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,005)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Kennesaw if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($123,786)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Augusta grew 28.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.8% growth in Kennesaw over the same period.
Augusta, GA
$77,910 (2019) → $99,880 (2025)
Kennesaw, GA
$78,215 (2024) → $94,503 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Augusta, GA
Kennesaw, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Augusta or Kennesaw?
What is the hourly rate difference between Augusta and Kennesaw?
Should I relocate from Augusta to Kennesaw as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Augusta vs Kennesaw?
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