Detroit vs Wyoming: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Detroit, MI and Wyoming, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Wyoming, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $92,342 | $98,543▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.40 | $47.38▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,617 | $68,679▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,572▲ | $79,077 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,699 | $112,231▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $110,418 | $134,416▲ |
| Total Employed | 2,030▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Wyoming, MI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Detroit.
The salary gap between Detroit and Wyoming is $6,201 (6.72%). Wyoming's median is -4.70% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $41,801,Wyoming spans $65,737. Wyoming 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, Wyoming ($105,733 effective) pays 14.84% more than Detroit ($92,068 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Larger job market (2,030 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Wyoming if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,543/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($134,416)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,733)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Detroit grew 13.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.0% growth in Wyoming over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$78,910 (2019) → $89,600 (2025)
Wyoming, MI
$80,331 (2024) → $95,617 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Wyoming, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Detroit or Wyoming?
What is the hourly rate difference between Detroit and Wyoming?
Should I relocate from Detroit to Wyoming as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Detroit vs Wyoming?
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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