Dover vs Newark: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Dover, DE and Newark, DE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dover, DE | Newark, DE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,536 | $104,480▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.38 | $50.23▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,268 | $77,233▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,870 | $86,646▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $114,685 | $118,588▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $140,935▲ | $130,781 |
| Total Employed | 80▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Dover and Newark are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Dover and Newark is $5,944 (6.03%). Newark's median is +1.04% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dover spans $74,667,Newark spans $53,548. Dover 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, Newark ($102,734 effective) pays 1.66% more than Dover ($101,055 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dover if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($140,935)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Delaware area and lifestyle
Choose Newark if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,480/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,734)
- ✓You prefer the Delaware area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Dover grew 33.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.1% growth in Newark over the same period.
Dover, DE
$71,420 (2019) → $95,610 (2025)
Newark, DE
$92,961 (2024) → $101,378 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Newark, DE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Dover or Newark?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dover and Newark?
Should I relocate from Dover to Newark as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Dover vs Newark?
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