Bedford vs Nashua: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Bedford, NH and Nashua, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bedford, NH | Nashua, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,496▲ | $86,685 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.24▲ | $41.68 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,284▲ | $59,771 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,611▲ | $69,012 |
| 75th Percentile | $120,123▲ | $100,141 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,192▲ | $111,820 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 21▲ |
Verdict
Bedford, NH offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Nashua.
The salary gap between Bedford and Nashua is $17,811 (20.55%). Bedford's median is +1.06% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bedford spans $56,908,Nashua spans $52,049. Bedford 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, Bedford ($97,387 effective) pays 20.55% more than Nashua ($80,788 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bedford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,496/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($132,192)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $97,387)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Choose Nashua if…
- ✓Larger job market (21 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Bedford grew 9.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -14.5% growth in Nashua over the same period.
Bedford, NH
$92,975 (2024) → $101,393 (2025)
Nashua, NH
$98,421 (2024) → $84,111 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bedford, NH
Nashua, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Bedford or Nashua?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bedford and Nashua?
Should I relocate from Bedford to Nashua as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Bedford vs Nashua?
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