Lakewood vs Spokane: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Lakewood, WA and Spokane, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lakewood, WA | Spokane, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,941▲ | $102,318 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.42▲ | $49.19 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,191 | $83,973▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $90,396▲ | $89,209 |
| 75th Percentile | $126,293▲ | $125,640 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $143,083▲ | $128,619 |
| Total Employed | 14 | 320▲ |
Verdict
Lakewood, WA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Spokane.
The salary gap between Lakewood and Spokane is $4,623 (4.52%). Lakewood's median is +3.42% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lakewood spans $70,892,Spokane spans $44,646. Lakewood 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, Spokane ($101,965 effective) pays 2.40% more than Lakewood ($99,573 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lakewood if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,941/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($143,083)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,965)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Lakewood grew -0.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 31.6% growth in Spokane over the same period.
Lakewood, WA
$103,995 (2024) → $103,766 (2025)
Spokane, WA
$75,440 (2019) → $99,280 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lakewood, WA
Spokane, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Lakewood or Spokane?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lakewood and Spokane?
Should I relocate from Lakewood to Spokane as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Lakewood vs Spokane?
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