Austin vs Duluth: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Austin, MN and Duluth, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, MN | Duluth, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,555 | $87,024▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.13 | $41.83▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,421 | $77,769▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $69,134 | $80,737▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $97,189 | $98,999▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,225▲ | $103,431 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 150▲ |
Verdict
Duluth, MN offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Austin.
The salary gap between Austin and Duluth is $1,469 (1.72%). Duluth's median is -15.84% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $46,804,Duluth spans $25,662. Austin 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, Duluth ($98,035 effective) pays 12.87% more than Austin ($86,858 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($107,225)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,024/year)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,035)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Austin grew 1.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.8% growth in Duluth over the same period.
Austin, MN
$81,984 (2024) → $83,015 (2025)
Duluth, MN
$72,950 (2019) → $84,440 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, MN
Duluth, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Austin or Duluth?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Duluth?
Should I relocate from Austin to Duluth as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Austin vs Duluth?
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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