Independence vs Kansas City: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Independence, MO and Kansas City, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, MO | Kansas City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,480 | $102,895▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.79 | $49.47▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,191▲ | $73,059 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,230 | $85,519▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $116,412▲ | $111,336 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $141,059▲ | $126,723 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 1,360▲ |
Verdict
Kansas City, MO offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Independence.
The salary gap between Independence and Kansas City is $1,415 (1.39%). Kansas City's median is -0.49% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $66,868,Kansas City spans $53,664. Independence 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, Independence ($113,259 effective) pays 1.86% more than Kansas City ($111,186 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($141,059)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $113,259)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Kansas City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,895/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,360 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Independence grew 25.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.5% growth in Kansas City over the same period.
Independence, MO
$78,639 (2024) → $98,467 (2025)
Kansas City, MO
$81,480 (2019) → $99,840 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, MO
Kansas City, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Independence or Kansas City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Kansas City?
Should I relocate from Independence to Kansas City as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Independence vs Kansas City?
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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