Bethlehem vs Philadelphia: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Bethlehem, PA and Philadelphia, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bethlehem, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,924 | $106,296▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.96 | $51.11▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,105 | $79,490▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,892 | $89,137▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $119,776 | $123,950▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,124 | $135,699▲ |
| Total Employed | 14 | 3,410▲ |
Verdict
Philadelphia, PA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bethlehem.
The salary gap between Bethlehem and Philadelphia is $2,372 (2.28%). Philadelphia's median is +2.80% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bethlehem spans $60,019,Philadelphia spans $56,209. Bethlehem 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, Bethlehem ($106,698 effective) pays 2.94% more than Philadelphia ($103,649 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bethlehem if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,698)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,296/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,699)
- ✓Larger job market (3,410 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Bethlehem grew 13.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.5% growth in Philadelphia over the same period.
Bethlehem, PA
$88,897 (2024) → $100,838 (2025)
Philadelphia, PA
$88,540 (2019) → $103,140 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bethlehem, PA
Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Bethlehem or Philadelphia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bethlehem and Philadelphia?
Should I relocate from Bethlehem to Philadelphia as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Bethlehem vs Philadelphia?
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