Bridgeport vs Waterbury: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Bridgeport, CT and Waterbury, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bridgeport, CT | Waterbury, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,460▲ | $102,503 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.15▲ | $49.28 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,356▲ | $77,501 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,700▲ | $84,252 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,930▲ | $115,984 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $139,595 | $142,584▲ |
| Total Employed | 750▲ | 380 |
Verdict
Bridgeport, CT offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterbury.
The salary gap between Bridgeport and Waterbury is $5,957 (5.81%). 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,Waterbury spans $65,083. Waterbury 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, Waterbury ($102,731 effective) pays 1.22% more than Bridgeport ($101,493 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)
- ✓Larger job market (750 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Waterbury if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($142,584)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,731)
- ✓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 12.8% growth in Waterbury over the same period.
Bridgeport, CT
$97,140 (2019) → $105,240 (2025)
Waterbury, CT
$88,190 (2019) → $99,460 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bridgeport, CT
Waterbury, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Bridgeport or Waterbury?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bridgeport and Waterbury?
Should I relocate from Bridgeport to Waterbury as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Bridgeport vs Waterbury?
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