Denver vs Arvada: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Denver, CO and Arvada, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Denver, CO | Arvada, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $110,790 | $111,626▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $53.26 | $53.66▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,593 | $82,197▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $97,093▲ | $93,097 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,226▲ | $128,506 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $162,649▲ | $144,542 |
| Total Employed | 1,870▲ | 31 |
Verdict
Denver and Arvada are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Denver and Arvada is $836 (0.75%). Arvada's median is +7.96% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Denver spans $81,056,Arvada spans $62,345. Denver 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, Arvada ($106,310 effective) pays 1.50% more than Denver ($104,734 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Denver if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($162,649)
- ✓Larger job market (1,870 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Arvada if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($111,626/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,310)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Denver grew 20.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.9% growth in Arvada over the same period.
Denver, CO
$89,420 (2019) → $107,500 (2025)
Arvada, CO
$96,762 (2024) → $108,312 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Denver, CO
Arvada, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Denver or Arvada?
What is the hourly rate difference between Denver and Arvada?
Should I relocate from Denver to Arvada as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Denver vs Arvada?
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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