DeKalb vs Rockford: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between DeKalb, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DeKalb, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $95,820 | $99,577▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.07 | $47.87▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,638▲ | $67,164 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,537▲ | $79,418 |
| 75th Percentile | $107,173▲ | $105,554 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $126,633 | $129,165▲ |
| Total Employed | 9 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Rockford, IL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to DeKalb.
The salary gap between DeKalb and Rockford is $3,757 (3.92%). Rockford's median is -3.70% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in DeKalb spans $52,995,Rockford spans $62,001. Rockford 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, Rockford ($108,055 effective) pays 9.50% more than DeKalb ($98,682 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose DeKalb if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,577/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,165)
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,055)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in DeKalb grew 8.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.5% growth in Rockford over the same period.
DeKalb, IL
$85,962 (2024) → $92,975 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$85,130 (2019) → $96,620 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
DeKalb, IL
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: DeKalb or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between DeKalb and Rockford?
Should I relocate from DeKalb to Rockford as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in DeKalb vs Rockford?
Related Comparisons
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