Des Moines vs Iowa City: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Des Moines, IA and Iowa City, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Iowa City, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,180 | $94,362▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.03 | $45.37▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,587▲ | $64,701 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,893▲ | $76,388 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,977 | $106,904▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $112,098▲ | $108,687 |
| Total Employed | 340▲ | 100 |
Verdict
Des Moines and Iowa City are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Iowa City is $13,182 (16.24%). Iowa City's median is -8.74% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $45,511,Iowa City spans $43,986. Des Moines 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, Iowa City ($103,118 effective) pays 16.48% more than Des Moines ($88,527 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,098)
- ✓Larger job market (340 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Iowa City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($94,362/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,118)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Des Moines grew -4.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 24.6% growth in Iowa City over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$82,100 (2019) → $78,770 (2025)
Iowa City, IA
$73,460 (2019) → $91,560 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Iowa City, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Des Moines or Iowa City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Iowa City?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Iowa City as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Des Moines vs Iowa City?
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