Columbus vs Hilliard: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Columbus, OH and Hilliard, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Hilliard, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,947▲ | $95,872 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.02▲ | $46.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,051 | $70,705▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,602▲ | $77,554 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,243▲ | $108,989 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,373▲ | $120,288 |
| Total Employed | 1,370▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hilliard.
The salary gap between Columbus and Hilliard is $6,075 (6.34%). Columbus's median is -1.41% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $56,322,Hilliard spans $49,583. Columbus 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, Columbus ($106,785 effective) pays 1.02% more than Hilliard ($105,702 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,947/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($123,373)
- ✓Larger job market (1,370 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,785)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Hilliard if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Columbus grew 30.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 23.1% growth in Hilliard over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$76,120 (2019) → $98,920 (2025)
Hilliard, OH
$75,548 (2024) → $93,025 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Hilliard, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Columbus or Hilliard?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Hilliard?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Hilliard as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Columbus vs Hilliard?
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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