Hackensack vs Newark: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Hackensack, NJ and Newark, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hackensack, NJ | Newark, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $114,300▲ | $104,719 |
| Hourly Rate | $54.95▲ | $50.34 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,312▲ | $67,874 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,872▲ | $86,806 |
| 75th Percentile | $127,637▲ | $127,166 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $146,105 | $147,873▲ |
| Total Employed | 8 | 61▲ |
Verdict
Hackensack and Newark are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Hackensack and Newark is $9,581 (9.15%). Hackensack's median is +10.54% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hackensack spans $58,793,Newark spans $79,999. Newark 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, Hackensack ($99,219 effective) pays 9.15% more than Newark ($90,902 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hackensack if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($114,300/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,219)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Newark if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($147,873)
- ✓Larger job market (61 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Hackensack grew -5.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -20.9% growth in Newark over the same period.
Hackensack, NJ
$117,174 (2024) → $110,906 (2025)
Newark, NJ
$128,407 (2024) → $101,610 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hackensack, NJ
Newark, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Hackensack or Newark?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hackensack and Newark?
Should I relocate from Hackensack to Newark as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Hackensack vs Newark?
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