Jonesboro vs Van Buren: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Jonesboro, AR and Van Buren, AR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jonesboro, AR | Van Buren, AR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,615▲ | $100,140 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.70▲ | $48.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,614 | $78,638▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $97,412▲ | $85,997 |
| 75th Percentile | $130,072▲ | $115,554 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $139,337▲ | $127,390 |
| Total Employed | 140▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Jonesboro, AR offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Van Buren.
The salary gap between Jonesboro and Van Buren is $9,475 (9.46%). Jonesboro's median is +6.01% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jonesboro spans $61,723,Van Buren spans $48,752. Jonesboro 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, Jonesboro ($127,643 effective) pays 10.77% more than Van Buren ($115,236 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jonesboro if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,615/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($139,337)
- ✓Larger job market (140 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $127,643)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Choose Van Buren if…
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Jonesboro grew 25.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 43.4% growth in Van Buren over the same period.
Jonesboro, AR
$84,740 (2019) → $106,360 (2025)
Van Buren, AR
$67,757 (2024) → $97,167 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jonesboro, AR
Van Buren, AR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Jonesboro or Van Buren?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jonesboro and Van Buren?
Should I relocate from Jonesboro to Van Buren as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Jonesboro vs Van Buren?
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