Grand Rapids vs Waterford: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Waterford, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Waterford, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,340▲ | $86,040 |
| Hourly Rate | $46.80▲ | $41.37 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,161▲ | $63,269 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,025▲ | $71,456 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,564▲ | $100,337 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,564 | $112,998▲ |
| Total Employed | 990▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterford.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Waterford is $11,300 (13.13%). 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 Grand Rapids spans $29,403,Waterford spans $49,729. Waterford has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced occupational therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Grand Rapids ($101,878 effective) pays 10.36% more than Waterford ($92,318 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($97,340/year)
- ✓Larger job market (990 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,878)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Waterford if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,998)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Grand Rapids grew 33.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Waterford over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$70,620 (2019) → $94,450 (2025)
Waterford, MI
$78,217 (2024) → $83,485 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Waterford, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Grand Rapids or Waterford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Waterford?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Waterford as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Grand Rapids vs Waterford?
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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