Charleston vs Spartanburg: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Charleston, SC and Spartanburg, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charleston, SC | Spartanburg, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,545 | $114,953▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.82 | $55.27▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,134 | $81,026▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,117▲ | $84,860 |
| 75th Percentile | $124,115▲ | $114,953 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,814▲ | $115,448 |
| Total Employed | 320▲ | 210 |
Verdict
Charleston and Spartanburg are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Charleston and Spartanburg is $13,408 (13.20%). Spartanburg's median is +11.17% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charleston spans $66,680,Spartanburg spans $34,422. Charleston 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, Spartanburg ($126,251 effective) pays 25.53% more than Charleston ($100,577 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charleston if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,814)
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Spartanburg if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($114,953/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $126,251)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Charleston grew 22.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 73.7% growth in Spartanburg over the same period.
Charleston, SC
$80,590 (2019) → $98,530 (2025)
Spartanburg, SC
$64,210 (2019) → $111,540 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charleston, SC
Spartanburg, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Charleston or Spartanburg?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charleston and Spartanburg?
Should I relocate from Charleston to Spartanburg as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Charleston vs Spartanburg?
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