Columbia vs Greer: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Columbia, SC and Greer, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Greer, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,791 | $108,015▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.86 | $51.93▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,418▲ | $79,361 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,818 | $89,556▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $110,099 | $124,909▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $115,695 | $138,994▲ |
| Total Employed | 280▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Greer, SC offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Columbia and Greer is $2,224 (2.10%). Greer's median is +4.46% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $36,277,Greer spans $59,633. Greer 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, Greer ($118,049 effective) pays 4.51% more than Columbia ($112,950 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Larger job market (280 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Greer if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,015/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,994)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $118,049)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Columbia grew 21.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 34.1% growth in Greer over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$84,600 (2019) → $102,650 (2025)
Greer, SC
$78,170 (2024) → $104,808 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Columbia or Greer?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Greer?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Greer as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Columbia vs Greer?
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