Jersey City vs Newark: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Jersey City, NJ and Newark, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jersey City, NJ | Newark, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,359▲ | $104,719 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.14▲ | $50.34 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,063▲ | $67,874 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,891 | $86,806▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $124,669 | $127,166▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $142,522 | $147,873▲ |
| Total Employed | 42 | 61▲ |
Verdict
Jersey City and Newark are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Jersey City and Newark is $1,640 (1.57%). Jersey City's median is +2.86% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jersey City spans $71,459,Newark spans $79,999. Newark 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, Jersey City ($92,326 effective) pays 1.57% more than Newark ($90,902 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jersey City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,359/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $92,326)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Newark if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($147,873)
- ✓Larger job market (61 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Jersey City grew -19.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -20.9% growth in Newark over the same period.
Jersey City, NJ
$127,934 (2024) → $103,201 (2025)
Newark, NJ
$128,407 (2024) → $101,610 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jersey City, NJ
Newark, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Jersey City or Newark?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jersey City and Newark?
Should I relocate from Jersey City to Newark as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Jersey City vs Newark?
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