Caledonia vs Milwaukee: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Caledonia, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Caledonia, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $91,549 | $96,897▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.02 | $46.58▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,857 | $78,140▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,679 | $82,726▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $106,586▲ | $105,451 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $118,985▲ | $114,561 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 1,220▲ |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Caledonia.
The salary gap between Caledonia and Milwaukee is $5,348 (5.84%). Milwaukee's median is -6.29% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Caledonia spans $55,128,Milwaukee spans $36,421. Caledonia 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, Milwaukee ($99,959 effective) pays 1.98% more than Caledonia ($98,018 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Caledonia if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($118,985)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($96,897/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,220 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,959)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Caledonia grew 14.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.0% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Caledonia, WI
$77,836 (2024) → $88,831 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$79,710 (2019) → $94,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Caledonia, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Caledonia or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Caledonia and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Caledonia to Milwaukee as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Caledonia vs Milwaukee?
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