Charleston vs Wheeling: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Charleston, WV and Wheeling, WV. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charleston, WV | Wheeling, WV |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $94,321 | $103,761▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $45.35 | $49.88▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,022 | $65,330▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $68,391 | $85,128▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $108,605 | $118,138▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $120,147 | $127,836▲ |
| Total Employed | 80▲ | 70 |
Verdict
Wheeling, WV offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Charleston.
The salary gap between Charleston and Wheeling is $9,440 (10.01%). Wheeling's median is +0.35% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charleston spans $58,125,Wheeling spans $62,506. Wheeling 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, Wheeling ($117,479 effective) pays 10.50% more than Charleston ($106,317 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charleston if…
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the West Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Wheeling if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,761/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($127,836)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,479)
- ✓You prefer the West Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Charleston grew 21.2% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 30.2% growth in Wheeling over the same period.
Charleston, WV
$75,490 (2021) → $91,520 (2025)
Wheeling, WV
$77,320 (2021) → $100,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charleston, WV
Wheeling, WV
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Charleston or Wheeling?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charleston and Wheeling?
Should I relocate from Charleston to Wheeling as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Charleston vs Wheeling?
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