Green Bay vs Waukesha: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Green Bay, WI and Waukesha, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Green Bay, WI | Waukesha, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $91,445 | $98,118▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.97 | $47.17▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,904▲ | $68,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,655▲ | $78,765 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,183 | $111,701▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,481 | $124,323▲ |
| Total Employed | 250▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Waukesha, WI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Green Bay.
The salary gap between Green Bay and Waukesha is $6,673 (7.30%). Waukesha's median is -5.11% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Green Bay spans $32,577,Waukesha spans $55,803. Waukesha 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, Waukesha ($105,051 effective) pays 6.94% more than Green Bay ($98,237 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Green Bay if…
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Waukesha if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,118/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,323)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,051)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Green Bay grew 23.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.2% growth in Waukesha over the same period.
Green Bay, WI
$72,040 (2019) → $88,730 (2025)
Waukesha, WI
$80,523 (2024) → $95,205 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Green Bay, WI
Waukesha, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Green Bay or Waukesha?
What is the hourly rate difference between Green Bay and Waukesha?
Should I relocate from Green Bay to Waukesha as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Green Bay vs Waukesha?
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