Clearwater vs Tampa: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Clearwater, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Clearwater, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,383▲ | $100,710 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.74▲ | $48.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,471 | $77,831▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $79,870 | $85,870▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $121,983▲ | $105,863 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $140,146▲ | $115,448 |
| Total Employed | 19 | 1,660▲ |
Verdict
Clearwater, FL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tampa.
The salary gap between Clearwater and Tampa is $673 (0.67%). Clearwater's median is -1.95% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Clearwater spans $71,675,Tampa spans $37,617. Clearwater 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, Clearwater ($100,578 effective) pays 0.76% more than Tampa ($99,822 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Clearwater if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,383/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($140,146)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,578)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,660 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Clearwater grew 4.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.8% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Clearwater, FL
$94,289 (2024) → $98,373 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$86,660 (2019) → $97,720 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Clearwater, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Clearwater or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Clearwater and Tampa?
Should I relocate from Clearwater to Tampa as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Clearwater vs Tampa?
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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