Bowling Green vs Owensboro: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Bowling Green, KY and Owensboro, KY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bowling Green, KY | Owensboro, KY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,828 | $98,670▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.74 | $47.44▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,144 | $72,224▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,664▲ | $82,438 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,451 | $105,843▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $114,448▲ | $109,594 |
| Total Employed | 140▲ | 60 |
Verdict
Bowling Green and Owensboro are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Bowling Green and Owensboro is $11,842 (13.64%). Owensboro's median is -4.57% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bowling Green spans $47,304,Owensboro spans $37,370. Bowling Green 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, Owensboro ($111,353 effective) pays 15.65% more than Bowling Green ($96,284 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bowling Green if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($114,448)
- ✓Larger job market (140 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Choose Owensboro if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,670/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,353)
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Bowling Green grew -8.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 43.5% growth in Owensboro over the same period.
Bowling Green, KY
$92,460 (2019) → $84,250 (2025)
Owensboro, KY
$66,700 (2020) → $95,740 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bowling Green, KY
Owensboro, KY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Bowling Green or Owensboro?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bowling Green and Owensboro?
Should I relocate from Bowling Green to Owensboro as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Bowling Green vs Owensboro?
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