Gary vs Indianapolis: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Gary, IN and Indianapolis, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gary, IN | Indianapolis, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,346 | $103,142▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.32 | $49.59▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,098 | $80,675▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,203 | $86,612▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $109,692▲ | $108,965 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,235▲ | $128,495 |
| Total Employed | 14 | 1,660▲ |
Verdict
Indianapolis, IN offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Gary.
The salary gap between Gary and Indianapolis is $6,796 (7.05%). Indianapolis's median is -0.25% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gary spans $64,137,Indianapolis spans $47,820. Gary 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, Indianapolis ($107,781 effective) pays 2.14% more than Gary ($105,527 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gary if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,235)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Indianapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,142/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,660 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,781)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Gary grew 16.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.9% growth in Indianapolis over the same period.
Gary, IN
$80,447 (2024) → $93,485 (2025)
Indianapolis, IN
$86,330 (2019) → $100,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Gary or Indianapolis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gary and Indianapolis?
Should I relocate from Gary to Indianapolis as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Gary vs Indianapolis?
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