Lawrence vs Topeka: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Lawrence, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lawrence, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,152▲ | $102,102 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.08▲ | $49.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,509▲ | $68,762 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,590▲ | $86,241 |
| 75th Percentile | $120,384▲ | $108,409 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $120,384 | $128,351▲ |
| Total Employed | 50 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Lawrence and Topeka are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Lawrence and Topeka is $2,050 (2.01%). Lawrence's median is +0.73% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lawrence spans $33,875,Topeka spans $59,589. Topeka has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced occupational therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Lawrence ($115,413 effective) pays 0.40% more than Topeka ($114,954 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lawrence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,152/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $115,413)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,351)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Lawrence grew 23.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.5% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Lawrence, KS
$81,850 (2019) → $101,060 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$93,000 (2019) → $99,070 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lawrence, KS
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Lawrence or Topeka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lawrence and Topeka?
Should I relocate from Lawrence to Topeka as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Lawrence 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