Ferndale vs Grand Rapids: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Ferndale, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ferndale, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $83,670 | $97,340▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $40.22 | $46.80▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,728 | $77,161▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $68,963 | $82,025▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $93,956 | $106,564▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,846 | $106,564▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 990▲ |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ferndale.
The salary gap between Ferndale and Grand Rapids is $13,670 (16.34%). Grand Rapids's median is -5.86% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ferndale spans $40,118,Grand Rapids spans $29,403. Ferndale 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, Grand Rapids ($101,878 effective) pays 13.48% more than Ferndale ($89,775 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ferndale if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($97,340/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,564)
- ✓Larger job market (990 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,878)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Ferndale grew 6.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 33.7% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Ferndale, MI
$76,063 (2024) → $81,186 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$70,620 (2019) → $94,450 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ferndale, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Ferndale or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ferndale and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from Ferndale to Grand Rapids as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Ferndale vs Grand Rapids?
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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