Elk Grove vs San Diego: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Elk Grove, CA and San Diego, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Elk Grove, CA | San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $128,462▲ | $125,403 |
| Hourly Rate | $61.76▲ | $60.29 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,324 | $95,629▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $100,972 | $108,739▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $149,481▲ | $134,401 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $168,523▲ | $156,806 |
| Total Employed | 25 | 1,620▲ |
Verdict
Elk Grove, CA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to San Diego.
The salary gap between Elk Grove and San Diego is $3,059 (2.44%). Elk Grove's median is +24.24% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Elk Grove spans $82,199,San Diego spans $61,177. Elk Grove 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, Elk Grove ($113,583 effective) pays 1.34% more than San Diego ($112,080 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Elk Grove if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($128,462/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($168,523)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $113,583)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Diego if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,620 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Elk Grove grew -2.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.1% growth in San Diego over the same period.
Elk Grove, CA
$127,451 (2024) → $124,648 (2025)
San Diego, CA
$95,000 (2019) → $121,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Elk Grove, CA
San Diego, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Elk Grove or San Diego?
What is the hourly rate difference between Elk Grove and San Diego?
Should I relocate from Elk Grove to San Diego as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Elk Grove vs San Diego?
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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