Brookline vs Worcester: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Brookline, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Brookline, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,895 | $101,308▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.54 | $48.71▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,772▲ | $65,763 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,420 | $83,303▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $116,781▲ | $109,470 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $128,694▲ | $127,568 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 790▲ |
Verdict
Worcester, MA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Brookline.
The salary gap between Brookline and Worcester is $2,413 (2.44%). Worcester's median is -2.02% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Brookline spans $56,922,Worcester spans $61,805. Worcester 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, Worcester ($98,815 effective) pays 8.41% more than Brookline ($91,147 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Brookline if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,694)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,308/year)
- ✓Larger job market (790 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,815)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Brookline grew -5.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.9% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Brookline, MA
$101,027 (2024) → $95,959 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$85,540 (2019) → $98,300 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Brookline, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Brookline or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Brookline and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Brookline to Worcester as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Brookline vs Worcester?
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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