Hutchinson vs Manhattan: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Hutchinson, KS and Manhattan, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hutchinson, KS | Manhattan, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $91,948▲ | $91,321 |
| Hourly Rate | $44.20▲ | $43.90 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,008▲ | $65,309 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,045▲ | $72,389 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,651 | $104,554▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $121,202▲ | $115,870 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Hutchinson, KS offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Manhattan.
The salary gap between Hutchinson and Manhattan is $627 (0.69%). Hutchinson's median is -11.08% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hutchinson spans $51,194,Manhattan spans $50,561. Hutchinson 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, Manhattan ($101,285 effective) pays 0.13% more than Hutchinson ($101,153 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hutchinson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($91,948/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($121,202)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Manhattan if…
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,285)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Hutchinson grew 18.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.9% growth in Manhattan over the same period.
Hutchinson, KS
$75,586 (2024) → $89,218 (2025)
Manhattan, KS
$80,660 (2022) → $88,610 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hutchinson, KS
Manhattan, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Hutchinson or Manhattan?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hutchinson and Manhattan?
Should I relocate from Hutchinson to Manhattan as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Hutchinson vs Manhattan?
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