Indianapolis vs South Bend: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Indianapolis, IN and South Bend, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Indianapolis, IN | South Bend, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,142▲ | $95,516 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.59▲ | $45.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,675▲ | $61,661 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,612▲ | $79,026 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,965 | $115,757▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $128,495▲ | $119,148 |
| Total Employed | 1,660▲ | 140 |
Verdict
Indianapolis, IN offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to South Bend.
The salary gap between Indianapolis and South Bend is $7,626 (7.98%). 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,South Bend spans $57,487. South Bend 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 4.78% more than South Bend ($102,862 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 South Bend 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 26.9% growth in South Bend over the same period.
Indianapolis, IN
$86,330 (2019) → $100,080 (2025)
South Bend, IN
$73,040 (2019) → $92,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
South Bend, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Indianapolis or South Bend?
What is the hourly rate difference between Indianapolis and South Bend?
Should I relocate from Indianapolis to South Bend as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Indianapolis vs South Bend?
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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