Carrboro vs Winston: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Carrboro, NC and Winston, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carrboro, NC | Winston, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $83,945 | $96,650▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $40.36 | $46.47▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,582 | $67,422▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,669 | $79,511▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $93,467 | $109,749▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,297 | $119,498▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 260▲ |
Verdict
Winston, NC offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Carrboro.
The salary gap between Carrboro and Winston is $12,705 (15.13%). Winston's median is -6.53% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Carrboro spans $40,715,Winston spans $52,076. Winston 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, Winston ($105,005 effective) pays 17.08% more than Carrboro ($89,685 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carrboro if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Winston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($96,650/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($119,498)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,005)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Carrboro grew 0.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -3.6% growth in Winston over the same period.
Carrboro, NC
$81,162 (2024) → $81,453 (2025)
Winston, NC
$97,240 (2019) → $93,780 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carrboro, NC
Winston, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Carrboro or Winston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carrboro and Winston?
Should I relocate from Carrboro to Winston as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Carrboro vs Winston?
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