Burlington vs Cedar Rapids: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Burlington, IA and Cedar Rapids, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Burlington, IA | Cedar Rapids, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,542▲ | $82,129 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.56▲ | $39.48 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,732 | $77,192▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $74,284 | $80,078▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $100,522 | $110,934▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $109,972 | $124,249▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 110▲ |
Verdict
Burlington and Cedar Rapids are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Burlington and Cedar Rapids is $6,413 (7.81%). Burlington's median is -14.37% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Burlington spans $43,240,Cedar Rapids spans $47,057. Cedar Rapids 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, Burlington ($97,945 effective) pays 6.09% more than Cedar Rapids ($92,318 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Burlington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,542/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $97,945)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,249)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Burlington grew 20.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.4% growth in Cedar Rapids over the same period.
Burlington, IA
$71,177 (2024) → $85,913 (2025)
Cedar Rapids, IA
$72,860 (2019) → $79,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Burlington, IA
Cedar Rapids, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Burlington or Cedar Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Burlington and Cedar Rapids?
Should I relocate from Burlington to Cedar Rapids as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Burlington vs Cedar Rapids?
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