Birmingham vs Gadsden: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Birmingham, AL and Gadsden, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Birmingham, AL | Gadsden, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,165▲ | $90,301 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.20▲ | $43.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,119▲ | $75,048 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,735▲ | $84,128 |
| 75th Percentile | $116,427▲ | $113,005 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,938▲ | $113,005 |
| Total Employed | 540▲ | 80 |
Verdict
Birmingham, AL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Gadsden.
The salary gap between Birmingham and Gadsden is $7,864 (8.71%). Birmingham's median is -5.06% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Birmingham spans $51,819,Gadsden spans $37,957. Birmingham 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, Birmingham ($107,116 effective) pays 1.60% more than Gadsden ($105,427 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Birmingham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,165/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,938)
- ✓Larger job market (540 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,116)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Gadsden if…
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Birmingham grew 5.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.8% growth in Gadsden over the same period.
Birmingham, AL
$90,150 (2019) → $95,250 (2025)
Gadsden, AL
$83,570 (2019) → $87,620 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Birmingham, AL
Gadsden, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Birmingham or Gadsden?
What is the hourly rate difference between Birmingham and Gadsden?
Should I relocate from Birmingham to Gadsden as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Birmingham vs Gadsden?
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