Fontana vs San Francisco: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Fontana, CA and San Francisco, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fontana, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,590 | $140,955▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $63.27 | $67.77▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,798 | $99,195▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $102,632 | $127,331▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $156,030 | $159,774▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $178,852▲ | $176,707 |
| Total Employed | 32 | 1,560▲ |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Fontana.
The salary gap between Fontana and San Francisco is $9,365 (7.12%). San Francisco's median is +36.32% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fontana spans $92,054,San Francisco spans $77,512. Fontana 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, San Francisco ($121,920 effective) pays 4.79% more than Fontana ($116,348 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fontana if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($178,852)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,955/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,560 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $121,920)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Fontana grew -2.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.4% growth in San Francisco over the same period.
Fontana, CA
$130,554 (2024) → $127,683 (2025)
San Francisco, CA
$106,520 (2019) → $136,770 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fontana, CA
San Francisco, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Fontana or San Francisco?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fontana and San Francisco?
Should I relocate from Fontana to San Francisco as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Fontana vs San Francisco?
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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