Bryant vs Jonesboro: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Bryant, AR and Jonesboro, AR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bryant, AR | Jonesboro, AR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,942 | $109,615▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.02 | $52.70▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,347 | $77,614▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $83,477 | $97,412▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $113,846 | $130,072▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,197 | $139,337▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 140▲ |
Verdict
Jonesboro, AR offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bryant.
The salary gap between Bryant and Jonesboro is $7,673 (7.53%). Jonesboro's median is +6.01% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bryant spans $48,850,Jonesboro spans $61,723. Jonesboro 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, Jonesboro ($127,643 effective) pays 8.81% more than Bryant ($117,310 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bryant if…
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Choose Jonesboro if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,615/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($139,337)
- ✓Larger job market (140 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $127,643)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Bryant grew 43.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 25.5% growth in Jonesboro over the same period.
Bryant, AR
$68,976 (2024) → $98,915 (2025)
Jonesboro, AR
$84,740 (2019) → $106,360 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bryant, AR
Jonesboro, AR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Bryant or Jonesboro?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bryant and Jonesboro?
Should I relocate from Bryant to Jonesboro as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Bryant vs Jonesboro?
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