Kennewick vs Yakima: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Kennewick, WA and Yakima, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kennewick, WA | Yakima, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,595 | $114,809▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.77 | $55.20▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,521 | $90,013▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $95,660 | $100,112▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $128,578▲ | $127,619 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,360▲ | $129,691 |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 40 |
Verdict
Kennewick and Yakima are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Kennewick and Yakima is $9,214 (8.73%). Yakima's median is +11.03% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kennewick spans $52,839,Yakima spans $39,678. Kennewick 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, Yakima ($120,162 effective) pays 13.89% more than Kennewick ($105,512 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kennewick if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($132,360)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Yakima if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($114,809/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $120,162)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Kennewick grew 14.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 22.5% growth in Yakima over the same period.
Kennewick, WA
$89,640 (2019) → $102,460 (2025)
Yakima, WA
$90,960 (2019) → $111,400 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kennewick, WA
Yakima, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Kennewick or Yakima?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kennewick and Yakima?
Should I relocate from Kennewick to Yakima as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Kennewick vs Yakima?
Related Comparisons
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