Jacksonville vs Raleigh: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Jacksonville, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jacksonville, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,158▲ | $86,653 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.38▲ | $41.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,898 | $63,660▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,904 | $77,202▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $106,482 | $109,913▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,448 | $124,919▲ |
| Total Employed | 40 | 680▲ |
Verdict
Jacksonville and Raleigh are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Jacksonville and Raleigh is $1,505 (1.74%). Jacksonville's median is -14.74% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jacksonville spans $51,550,Raleigh spans $61,259. Raleigh 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, Jacksonville ($95,735 effective) pays 8.45% more than Raleigh ($88,280 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jacksonville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,158/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,735)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,919)
- ✓Larger job market (680 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Jacksonville grew 6.3% from 2023 to 2025, compared to 8.3% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Jacksonville, NC
$80,490 (2023) → $85,540 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$77,650 (2019) → $84,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jacksonville, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Jacksonville or Raleigh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jacksonville and Raleigh?
Should I relocate from Jacksonville to Raleigh as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Jacksonville vs Raleigh?
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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