Indianapolis vs Lafayette: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Indianapolis, IN and Lafayette, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Indianapolis, IN | Lafayette, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,142▲ | $99,700 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.59▲ | $47.93 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,675▲ | $63,433 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,612▲ | $80,995 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,965▲ | $100,999 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $128,495▲ | $118,426 |
| Total Employed | 1,660▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Indianapolis, IN offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lafayette.
The salary gap between Indianapolis and Lafayette is $3,442 (3.45%). Indianapolis's median is -0.25% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Indianapolis spans $47,820,Lafayette spans $54,993. Lafayette 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, Indianapolis ($107,781 effective) pays 1.00% more than Lafayette ($106,711 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Indianapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,142/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,495)
- ✓Larger job market (1,660 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,781)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Lafayette if…
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Indianapolis grew 15.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.2% growth in Lafayette over the same period.
Indianapolis, IN
$86,330 (2019) → $100,080 (2025)
Lafayette, IN
$73,170 (2019) → $96,740 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
Lafayette, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Indianapolis or Lafayette?
What is the hourly rate difference between Indianapolis and Lafayette?
Should I relocate from Indianapolis to Lafayette as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Indianapolis vs Lafayette?
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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