Germantown vs Madison: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Germantown, WI and Madison, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Germantown, WI | Madison, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,499 | $98,598▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.03 | $47.41▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,761 | $76,759▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,090 | $82,737▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $103,492 | $108,048▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $114,204 | $119,148▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 610▲ |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Germantown.
The salary gap between Germantown and Madison is $9,099 (10.17%). Madison's median is -4.64% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Germantown spans $48,443,Madison spans $42,389. Germantown 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, Madison ($101,348 effective) pays 5.77% more than Germantown ($95,823 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Germantown if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,598/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($119,148)
- ✓Larger job market (610 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,348)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Germantown grew 14.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 31.5% growth in Madison over the same period.
Germantown, WI
$76,093 (2024) → $86,842 (2025)
Madison, WI
$72,750 (2019) → $95,670 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Germantown, WI
Madison, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Germantown or Madison?
What is the hourly rate difference between Germantown and Madison?
Should I relocate from Germantown to Madison as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Germantown vs Madison?
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