Bethesda vs Hagerstown: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Bethesda, MD and Hagerstown, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bethesda, MD | Hagerstown, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,161▲ | $105,987 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.48▲ | $50.95 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,063▲ | $66,958 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,338▲ | $81,335 |
| 75th Percentile | $128,369▲ | $111,789 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $145,145▲ | $122,033 |
| Total Employed | 18 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Bethesda, MD offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hagerstown.
The salary gap between Bethesda and Hagerstown is $3,174 (2.99%). Bethesda's median is +5.57% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bethesda spans $67,082,Hagerstown spans $55,075. Bethesda 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, Hagerstown ($112,547 effective) pays 12.69% more than Bethesda ($99,873 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bethesda if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,161/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($145,145)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Hagerstown if…
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,547)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Bethesda grew 5.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.4% growth in Hagerstown over the same period.
Bethesda, MD
$100,293 (2024) → $105,920 (2025)
Hagerstown, MD
$89,910 (2019) → $102,840 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bethesda, MD
Hagerstown, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Bethesda or Hagerstown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bethesda and Hagerstown?
Should I relocate from Bethesda to Hagerstown as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Bethesda vs Hagerstown?
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