Bowling Green vs Columbus: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Bowling Green, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bowling Green, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,642 | $101,947▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.39 | $49.02▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,409▲ | $67,051 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,472 | $84,602▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $114,241▲ | $110,243 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,992▲ | $123,373 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 1,370▲ |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Bowling Green.
The salary gap between Bowling Green and Columbus is $1,305 (1.30%). Columbus's median is -1.41% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bowling Green spans $51,583,Columbus spans $56,322. Columbus 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, Bowling Green ($110,961 effective) pays 3.91% more than Columbus ($106,785 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 ($125,992)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,961)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,947/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,370 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Bowling Green grew 23.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 30.0% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Bowling Green, OH
$79,308 (2024) → $97,654 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$76,120 (2019) → $98,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bowling Green, OH
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Bowling Green or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bowling Green and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Bowling Green to Columbus as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Bowling Green vs Columbus?
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