Boise City vs Caldwell: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Boise City, ID and Caldwell, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Boise City, ID | Caldwell, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,019 | $101,813▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.57 | $48.95▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,594▲ | $69,016 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,013▲ | $86,276 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,057 | $116,571▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $165,669▲ | $130,113 |
| Total Employed | 420▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Boise City and Caldwell are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Boise City and Caldwell is $794 (0.79%). Caldwell's median is -1.53% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Boise City spans $89,075,Caldwell spans $61,097. Boise City 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, Caldwell ($106,834 effective) pays 4.05% more than Boise City ($102,671 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Boise City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($165,669)
- ✓Larger job market (420 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Caldwell if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,813/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,834)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Boise City grew 15.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 16.9% growth in Caldwell over the same period.
Boise City, ID
$85,040 (2019) → $98,020 (2025)
Caldwell, ID
$84,523 (2024) → $98,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Boise City, ID
Caldwell, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Boise City or Caldwell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Boise City and Caldwell?
Should I relocate from Boise City to Caldwell as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Boise City vs Caldwell?
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