East Providence vs Pawtucket: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between East Providence, RI and Pawtucket, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | East Providence, RI | Pawtucket, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,005 | $103,804▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.52 | $49.90▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,626▲ | $71,894 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,121▲ | $82,881 |
| 75th Percentile | $118,882 | $119,997▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,780 | $141,161▲ |
| Total Employed | 10 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Pawtucket, RI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to East Providence.
The salary gap between East Providence and Pawtucket is $799 (0.78%). Pawtucket's median is +0.39% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in East Providence spans $56,154,Pawtucket spans $69,267. Pawtucket 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, Pawtucket ($103,288 effective) pays 0.78% more than East Providence ($102,493 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose East Providence if…
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Pawtucket if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,804/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($141,161)
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,288)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in East Providence grew 9.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.1% growth in Pawtucket over the same period.
East Providence, RI
$91,649 (2024) → $99,947 (2025)
Pawtucket, RI
$92,359 (2024) → $100,722 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
East Providence, RI
Pawtucket, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: East Providence or Pawtucket?
What is the hourly rate difference between East Providence and Pawtucket?
Should I relocate from East Providence to Pawtucket as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in East Providence vs Pawtucket?
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