Charleston vs Tega Cay: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Charleston, SC and Tega Cay, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charleston, SC | Tega Cay, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,545▲ | $96,518 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.82▲ | $46.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,134 | $74,702▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,117▲ | $82,170 |
| 75th Percentile | $124,115▲ | $108,723 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,814▲ | $118,151 |
| Total Employed | 320▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Charleston, SC offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tega Cay.
The salary gap between Charleston and Tega Cay is $5,027 (5.21%). Charleston's median is -1.79% 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,Tega Cay spans $43,449. 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, Tega Cay ($105,484 effective) pays 4.88% 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…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,545/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,814)
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Tega Cay if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,484)
- ✓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 29.0% growth in Tega Cay over the same period.
Charleston, SC
$80,590 (2019) → $98,530 (2025)
Tega Cay, SC
$72,599 (2024) → $93,652 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charleston, SC
Tega Cay, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Charleston or Tega Cay?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charleston and Tega Cay?
Should I relocate from Charleston to Tega Cay as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Charleston vs Tega Cay?
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