Duluth vs Hastings: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Duluth, MN and Hastings, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Duluth, MN | Hastings, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,024▲ | $86,182 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.83▲ | $41.43 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,769▲ | $64,167 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,737▲ | $71,459 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,999▲ | $97,049 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,431 | $105,758▲ |
| Total Employed | 150▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Duluth, MN offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hastings.
The salary gap between Duluth and Hastings is $842 (0.98%). 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,Hastings spans $41,591. Hastings 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 12.05% more than Hastings ($87,494 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 Hastings if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($105,758)
- ✓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 Hastings over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$72,950 (2019) → $84,440 (2025)
Hastings, MN
$82,584 (2024) → $83,623 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Hastings, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Duluth or Hastings?
What is the hourly rate difference between Duluth and Hastings?
Should I relocate from Duluth to Hastings as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Duluth vs Hastings?
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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