Coeur d'Alene vs Pocatello: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Coeur d'Alene, ID and Pocatello, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Coeur d'Alene, ID | Pocatello, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,720▲ | $93,517 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.86▲ | $44.97 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,100▲ | $49,974 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,159▲ | $80,387 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,915▲ | $100,319 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $122,992▲ | $109,429 |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Coeur d'Alene, ID offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pocatello.
The salary gap between Coeur d'Alene and Pocatello is $10,203 (10.91%). Coeur d'Alene's median is +0.31% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Coeur d'Alene spans $46,892,Pocatello spans $59,455. Pocatello 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, Coeur d'Alene ($105,521 effective) pays 0.32% more than Pocatello ($105,186 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Coeur d'Alene if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,720/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($122,992)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,521)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Pocatello if…
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Coeur d'Alene grew 13.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 5.6% growth in Pocatello over the same period.
Coeur d'Alene, ID
$88,340 (2019) → $100,640 (2025)
Pocatello, ID
$85,950 (2019) → $90,740 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Coeur d'Alene, ID
Pocatello, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Coeur d'Alene or Pocatello?
What is the hourly rate difference between Coeur d'Alene and Pocatello?
Should I relocate from Coeur d'Alene to Pocatello as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Coeur d'Alene vs Pocatello?
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