Boston vs Lowell: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Boston, MA and Lowell, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Boston, MA | Lowell, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,059▲ | $102,245 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.51▲ | $49.16 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,955▲ | $74,852 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,343▲ | $84,942 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,005 | $121,462▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $133,009 | $138,184▲ |
| Total Employed | 4,790▲ | 29 |
Verdict
Boston, MA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lowell.
The salary gap between Boston and Lowell is $2,814 (2.75%). Boston's median is +1.60% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Boston spans $56,054,Lowell spans $63,332. Lowell has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced occupational therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Boston ($97,038 effective) pays 2.97% more than Lowell ($94,235 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Boston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,059/year)
- ✓Larger job market (4,790 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $97,038)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Lowell if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,184)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Boston grew 16.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -5.0% growth in Lowell over the same period.
Boston, MA
$87,740 (2019) → $101,940 (2025)
Lowell, MA
$104,448 (2024) → $99,209 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Boston, MA
Lowell, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Boston or Lowell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Boston and Lowell?
Should I relocate from Boston to Lowell as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Boston vs Lowell?
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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