Des Moines vs Seattle: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Des Moines, WA and Seattle, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,233 | $113,222▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $51.55 | $54.44▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,306 | $86,210▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $88,552 | $100,112▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,659 | $133,906▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $137,421 | $142,274▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 2,020▲ |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Moines.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Seattle is $5,989 (5.59%). Seattle's median is +9.50% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $59,115,Seattle spans $56,064. 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, Seattle ($101,880 effective) pays 2.04% more than Des Moines ($99,845 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($113,222/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($142,274)
- ✓Larger job market (2,020 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,880)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Des Moines grew -0.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 29.5% growth in Seattle over the same period.
Des Moines, WA
$104,279 (2024) → $104,049 (2025)
Seattle, WA
$84,820 (2019) → $109,860 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, WA
Seattle, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Des Moines or Seattle?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Seattle?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Seattle as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Des Moines vs Seattle?
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