Glendale vs Mesa: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Glendale, AZ and Mesa, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Glendale, AZ | Mesa, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $112,054▲ | $107,751 |
| Hourly Rate | $53.87▲ | $51.81 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,278 | $77,011▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $88,698▲ | $88,521 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,675▲ | $125,972 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $150,718▲ | $143,247 |
| Total Employed | 50 | 98▲ |
Verdict
Glendale, AZ offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Mesa.
The salary gap between Glendale and Mesa is $4,303 (3.99%). Glendale's median is +8.37% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Glendale spans $75,440,Mesa spans $66,236. Glendale 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, Glendale ($113,760 effective) pays 3.99% more than Mesa ($109,392 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Glendale if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($112,054/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($150,718)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $113,760)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Mesa if…
- ✓Larger job market (98 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Glendale grew 13.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.2% growth in Mesa over the same period.
Glendale, AZ
$96,199 (2024) → $108,727 (2025)
Mesa, AZ
$98,455 (2024) → $104,552 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Glendale, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Glendale or Mesa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Glendale and Mesa?
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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