Binghamton vs Rochester: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Binghamton, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Binghamton, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,034▲ | $84,252 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.80▲ | $40.50 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $64,763▲ | $59,713 |
| 25th Percentile | $71,575▲ | $67,958 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,409▲ | $102,174 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $118,828▲ | $113,170 |
| Total Employed | 180 | 740▲ |
Verdict
Binghamton, NY offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Binghamton and Rochester is $4,782 (5.68%). Binghamton's median is -13.89% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Binghamton spans $54,065,Rochester spans $53,457. Binghamton 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, Binghamton ($95,877 effective) pays 10.42% more than Rochester ($86,826 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Binghamton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,034/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($118,828)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,877)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (740 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Binghamton grew 2.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.5% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Binghamton, NY
$84,190 (2019) → $86,390 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$75,360 (2019) → $81,750 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Binghamton, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Binghamton or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Binghamton and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Binghamton to Rochester as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Binghamton vs Rochester?
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