Houma vs Slidell: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Houma, LA and Slidell, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Houma, LA | Slidell, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,251 | $87,282▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $40.99 | $41.97▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,939▲ | $54,230 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,939 | $63,124▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $105,575 | $106,162▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,505▲ | $116,138 |
| Total Employed | 120 | 180▲ |
Verdict
Slidell, LA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Houma.
The salary gap between Houma and Slidell is $2,031 (2.38%). Slidell's median is -15.59% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Houma spans $67,566,Slidell spans $61,908. Houma 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, Houma ($100,174 effective) pays 6.42% more than Slidell ($94,129 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Houma if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,505)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,174)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Slidell if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,282/year)
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Houma grew -9.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -8.8% growth in Slidell over the same period.
Houma, LA
$91,650 (2019) → $82,720 (2025)
Slidell, LA
$92,880 (2024) → $84,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Slidell, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Houma or Slidell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Houma and Slidell?
Should I relocate from Houma to Slidell as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Houma vs Slidell?
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