Buffalo vs Utica: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Buffalo, NY and Utica, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Buffalo, NY | Utica, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $84,056 | $88,549▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $40.41 | $42.57▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,413 | $64,392▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $67,906 | $76,501▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $104,142▲ | $100,813 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $109,883▲ | $109,048 |
| Total Employed | 970▲ | 240 |
Verdict
Buffalo and Utica are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Buffalo and Utica is $4,493 (5.35%). Utica's median is -14.36% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Buffalo spans $47,470,Utica spans $44,656. Buffalo 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, Utica ($95,545 effective) pays 8.94% more than Buffalo ($87,701 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Buffalo if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($109,883)
- ✓Larger job market (970 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Utica if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,549/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,545)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Buffalo grew 12.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.6% growth in Utica over the same period.
Buffalo, NY
$72,350 (2019) → $81,560 (2025)
Utica, NY
$79,110 (2019) → $85,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Buffalo, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Buffalo or Utica?
What is the hourly rate difference between Buffalo and Utica?
Should I relocate from Buffalo to Utica as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Buffalo vs Utica?
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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