Dover vs Manchester: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Dover, NH and Manchester, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dover, NH | Manchester, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,279▲ | $86,076 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.58▲ | $41.39 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,294▲ | $66,092 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,916▲ | $81,242 |
| 75th Percentile | $120,761▲ | $104,864 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,103▲ | $112,675 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 400▲ |
Verdict
Dover, NH offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Manchester.
The salary gap between Dover and Manchester is $21,203 (24.63%). Dover's median is +3.75% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dover spans $48,809,Manchester spans $46,583. 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, Dover ($99,980 effective) pays 22.72% more than Manchester ($81,467 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dover if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,279/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($132,103)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,980)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Choose Manchester if…
- ✓Larger job market (400 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Dover grew 43.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -0.6% growth in Manchester over the same period.
Dover, NH
$72,810 (2019) → $104,094 (2025)
Manchester, NH
$84,000 (2019) → $83,520 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manchester, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Dover or Manchester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dover and Manchester?
Should I relocate from Dover to Manchester as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Dover vs Manchester?
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