Lincoln vs Scottsbluff: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Lincoln, NE and Scottsbluff, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lincoln, NE | Scottsbluff, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,267▲ | $90,795 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.73▲ | $43.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,545▲ | $65,920 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,284▲ | $79,680 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,337▲ | $101,094 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $136,524▲ | $109,562 |
| Total Employed | 250▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Lincoln, NE offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Scottsbluff.
The salary gap between Lincoln and Scottsbluff is $8,472 (9.33%). Lincoln's median is -4.00% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lincoln spans $66,979,Scottsbluff spans $43,642. Lincoln 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, Lincoln ($108,393 effective) pays 9.23% more than Scottsbluff ($99,230 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lincoln if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,267/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($136,524)
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,393)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose Scottsbluff if…
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Lincoln grew 20.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.4% growth in Scottsbluff over the same period.
Lincoln, NE
$79,830 (2019) → $96,320 (2025)
Scottsbluff, NE
$73,760 (2024) → $88,099 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lincoln, NE
Scottsbluff, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Lincoln or Scottsbluff?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lincoln and Scottsbluff?
Should I relocate from Lincoln to Scottsbluff as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Lincoln vs Scottsbluff?
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