Kansas City vs Topeka: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Kansas City, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kansas City, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,550▲ | $102,102 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.79▲ | $49.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,882▲ | $68,762 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,538 | $86,241▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $120,563▲ | $108,409 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $136,365▲ | $128,351 |
| Total Employed | 25 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Kansas City, KS offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Topeka.
The salary gap between Kansas City and Topeka is $1,448 (1.42%). Kansas City's median is +0.15% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kansas City spans $66,483,Topeka spans $59,589. Kansas City 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, Topeka ($114,954 effective) pays 0.91% more than Kansas City ($113,916 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kansas City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,550/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($136,365)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,954)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Kansas City grew 27.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.5% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Kansas City, KS
$78,534 (2024) → $100,475 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$93,000 (2019) → $99,070 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kansas City, KS
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Kansas City or Topeka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kansas City and Topeka?
Should I relocate from Kansas City to Topeka as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Kansas City vs Topeka?
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