Cedar Rapids vs Johnston: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Cedar Rapids, IA and Johnston, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cedar Rapids, IA | Johnston, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $82,129 | $85,588▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.48 | $41.15▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,192▲ | $67,198 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,078▲ | $73,492 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,934▲ | $98,881 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,249▲ | $108,659 |
| Total Employed | 110▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Cedar Rapids and Johnston are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Cedar Rapids and Johnston is $3,459 (4.21%). Johnston's median is -17.23% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cedar Rapids spans $47,057,Johnston spans $41,461. Cedar Rapids 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, Johnston ($94,677 effective) pays 2.56% 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 Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,249)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Johnston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($85,588/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $94,677)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Cedar Rapids grew 9.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.7% growth in Johnston over the same period.
Cedar Rapids, IA
$72,860 (2019) → $79,690 (2025)
Johnston, IA
$68,802 (2024) → $83,047 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cedar Rapids, IA
Johnston, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Cedar Rapids or Johnston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cedar Rapids and Johnston?
Should I relocate from Cedar Rapids to Johnston as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Cedar Rapids vs Johnston?
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