Dallas vs McAllen: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Dallas, TX and McAllen, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dallas, TX | McAllen, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,357▲ | $104,070 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.57▲ | $50.04 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,315▲ | $73,296 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,859▲ | $85,035 |
| 75th Percentile | $130,721▲ | $125,321 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $150,241 | $162,010▲ |
| Total Employed | 3,450▲ | 340 |
Verdict
Dallas, TX offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to McAllen.
The salary gap between Dallas and McAllen is $5,287 (5.08%). Dallas's median is +5.76% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dallas spans $70,926,McAllen spans $88,714. McAllen 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, McAllen ($121,160 effective) pays 14.22% more than Dallas ($106,079 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dallas if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,357/year)
- ✓Larger job market (3,450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose McAllen if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($162,010)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $121,160)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Dallas grew 24.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.9% growth in McAllen over the same period.
Dallas, TX
$85,280 (2019) → $106,110 (2025)
McAllen, TX
$91,070 (2019) → $100,980 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dallas, TX
McAllen, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Dallas or McAllen?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dallas and McAllen?
Should I relocate from Dallas to McAllen as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Dallas vs McAllen?
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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