Huron vs Watertown: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Huron, SD and Watertown, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Huron, SD | Watertown, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,491 | $92,265▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.54 | $44.36▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,526 | $70,167▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,293 | $77,572▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,453 | $104,904▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $108,473 | $114,847▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 6▲ |
Verdict
Watertown, SD offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Huron.
The salary gap between Huron and Watertown is $3,774 (4.26%). Watertown's median is -10.77% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Huron spans $39,947,Watertown spans $44,680. Watertown 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, Watertown ($99,423 effective) pays 4.26% more than Huron ($95,357 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Huron if…
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Watertown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($92,265/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($114,847)
- ✓Larger job market (6 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,423)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Huron grew 22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.4% growth in Watertown over the same period.
Huron, SD
$70,177 (2024) → $85,864 (2025)
Watertown, SD
$73,170 (2024) → $89,526 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Watertown, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Huron or Watertown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Huron and Watertown?
Should I relocate from Huron to Watertown as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Huron vs Watertown?
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