Bridgeport vs Meriden: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Bridgeport, CT and Meriden, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bridgeport, CT | Meriden, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,460▲ | $104,465 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.15▲ | $50.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,356▲ | $78,743 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,700▲ | $88,202 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,930▲ | $119,287 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $139,595▲ | $132,967 |
| Total Employed | 750▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Bridgeport, CT offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Meriden.
The salary gap between Bridgeport and Meriden is $3,995 (3.82%). Bridgeport's median is +4.89% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bridgeport spans $59,239,Meriden spans $54,224. Bridgeport 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, Bridgeport ($101,493 effective) pays 4.83% more than Meriden ($96,816 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bridgeport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,460/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($139,595)
- ✓Larger job market (750 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,493)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Meriden if…
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Bridgeport grew 8.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 0.2% growth in Meriden over the same period.
Bridgeport, CT
$97,140 (2019) → $105,240 (2025)
Meriden, CT
$101,200 (2024) → $101,363 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bridgeport, CT
Meriden, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Bridgeport or Meriden?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bridgeport and Meriden?
Should I relocate from Bridgeport to Meriden as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Bridgeport vs Meriden?
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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