Austin vs San Antonio: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Austin, TX and San Antonio, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | San Antonio, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $125,785▲ | $110,944 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.48▲ | $53.33 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,489▲ | $78,006 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,493 | $102,607▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $133,854▲ | $133,123 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,009 | $135,648▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,600 | 1,780▲ |
Verdict
Austin and San Antonio are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Austin and San Antonio is $14,841 (13.38%). Austin's median is +21.65% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $52,520,San Antonio spans $57,642. San Antonio 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, Austin ($128,266 effective) pays 9.50% more than San Antonio ($117,133 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($125,785/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $128,266)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose San Antonio if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,648)
- ✓Larger job market (1,780 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Austin grew 57.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 50.0% growth in San Antonio over the same period.
Austin, TX
$77,310 (2019) → $122,050 (2025)
San Antonio, TX
$71,770 (2019) → $107,650 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
San Antonio, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Austin or San Antonio?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and San Antonio?
Should I relocate from Austin to San Antonio as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Austin vs San Antonio?
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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