Duluth vs Mankato: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Duluth, MN and Mankato, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Duluth, MN | Mankato, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,024 | $90,456▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.83 | $43.49▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,769 | $78,552▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,737 | $87,075▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $98,999 | $105,894▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,431 | $110,563▲ |
| Total Employed | 150▲ | 50 |
Verdict
Mankato, MN offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Duluth.
The salary gap between Duluth and Mankato is $3,432 (3.94%). Mankato's median is -12.52% 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,Mankato spans $32,011. Mankato 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, Mankato ($99,451 effective) pays 1.44% more than Duluth ($98,035 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Mankato if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,456/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($110,563)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,451)
- ✓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 17.5% growth in Mankato over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$72,950 (2019) → $84,440 (2025)
Mankato, MN
$74,670 (2019) → $87,770 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Mankato, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Duluth or Mankato?
What is the hourly rate difference between Duluth and Mankato?
Should I relocate from Duluth to Mankato as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Duluth vs Mankato?
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