Hartford vs Bridgeport: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Hartford, CT and Bridgeport, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hartford, CT | Bridgeport, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,647 | $108,460▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.83 | $52.15▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,872 | $80,356▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $83,901 | $99,700▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $112,263 | $122,930▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,764 | $139,595▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,140▲ | 750 |
Verdict
Bridgeport, CT offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hartford.
The salary gap between Hartford and Bridgeport is $4,813 (4.64%). Bridgeport's median is +4.89% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hartford spans $46,892,Bridgeport spans $59,239. Bridgeport 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, Bridgeport ($101,493 effective) pays 0.61% more than Hartford ($100,877 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hartford if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,140 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Bridgeport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,460/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($139,595)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,493)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Hartford grew 8.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.3% growth in Bridgeport over the same period.
Hartford, CT
$92,850 (2019) → $100,570 (2025)
Bridgeport, CT
$97,140 (2019) → $105,240 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hartford, CT
Bridgeport, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Hartford or Bridgeport?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hartford and Bridgeport?
Should I relocate from Hartford to Bridgeport as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Hartford vs Bridgeport?
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