Duluth vs Fridley: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Duluth, MN and Fridley, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Duluth, MN | Fridley, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,024▲ | $85,794 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.83▲ | $41.24 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,769▲ | $63,556 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,737▲ | $71,517 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,999 | $99,586▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,431 | $111,013▲ |
| Total Employed | 150▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Duluth, MN offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Fridley.
The salary gap between Duluth and Fridley is $1,230 (1.43%). Duluth's median is -15.84% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Duluth spans $25,662,Fridley spans $47,457. Fridley 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, Duluth ($98,035 effective) pays 12.55% more than Fridley ($87,101 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,024/year)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,035)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Fridley if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($111,013)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Duluth grew 15.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.3% growth in Fridley over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$72,950 (2019) → $84,440 (2025)
Fridley, MN
$82,213 (2024) → $83,247 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Fridley, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Duluth or Fridley?
What is the hourly rate difference between Duluth and Fridley?
Should I relocate from Duluth to Fridley as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Duluth vs Fridley?
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