Chicago vs Normal: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Chicago, IL and Normal, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Normal, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,916▲ | $96,542 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.48▲ | $46.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,161▲ | $67,186 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,911▲ | $77,324 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,572▲ | $111,844 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $140,326▲ | $125,556 |
| Total Employed | 5,960▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Normal.
The salary gap between Chicago and Normal is $6,374 (6.60%). Chicago's median is -0.47% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chicago spans $64,165,Normal spans $58,370. Chicago 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, Normal ($99,425 effective) pays 0.08% more than Chicago ($99,345 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,916/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($140,326)
- ✓Larger job market (5,960 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Normal if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,425)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Chicago grew 15.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.2% growth in Normal over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$86,140 (2019) → $99,860 (2025)
Normal, IL
$86,610 (2024) → $93,676 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Normal, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Chicago or Normal?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Normal?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Normal as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Chicago vs Normal?
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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