Dallas vs Waco: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Dallas, TX and Waco, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dallas, TX | Waco, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,357▲ | $104,606 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.57▲ | $50.29 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,315▲ | $73,018 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,859 | $87,941▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $130,721▲ | $122,518 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $150,241▲ | $135,854 |
| Total Employed | 3,450▲ | 130 |
Verdict
Dallas, TX offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waco.
The salary gap between Dallas and Waco is $4,751 (4.54%). 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,Waco spans $62,836. Dallas 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, Waco ($113,026 effective) pays 6.55% 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)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($150,241)
- ✓Larger job market (3,450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Waco if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $113,026)
- ✓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 20.5% growth in Waco over the same period.
Dallas, TX
$85,280 (2019) → $106,110 (2025)
Waco, TX
$84,260 (2019) → $101,500 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Dallas or Waco?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dallas and Waco?
Should I relocate from Dallas to Waco as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Dallas vs Waco?
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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