Lancaster vs Philadelphia: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Lancaster, PA and Philadelphia, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lancaster, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,595 | $106,296▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.77 | $51.11▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,595 | $79,490▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,612 | $89,137▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $128,382▲ | $123,950 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,813 | $135,699▲ |
| Total Employed | 240 | 3,410▲ |
Verdict
Philadelphia, PA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lancaster.
The salary gap between Lancaster and Philadelphia is $701 (0.66%). Philadelphia's median is +2.80% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lancaster spans $62,218,Philadelphia spans $56,209. Lancaster 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, Lancaster ($107,468 effective) pays 3.68% more than Philadelphia ($103,649 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lancaster if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,468)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,296/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,699)
- ✓Larger job market (3,410 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Lancaster grew 29.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 16.5% growth in Philadelphia over the same period.
Lancaster, PA
$78,910 (2019) → $102,460 (2025)
Philadelphia, PA
$88,540 (2019) → $103,140 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lancaster, PA
Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Lancaster or Philadelphia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lancaster and Philadelphia?
Should I relocate from Lancaster to Philadelphia as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Lancaster vs Philadelphia?
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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