Long Branch vs Trenton: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Long Branch, NJ and Trenton, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Long Branch, NJ | Trenton, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $116,223▲ | $104,472 |
| Hourly Rate | $55.88▲ | $50.23 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,386▲ | $79,057 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,778▲ | $91,806 |
| 75th Percentile | $136,257▲ | $119,591 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $152,604▲ | $138,812 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 210▲ |
Verdict
Long Branch, NJ offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Trenton.
The salary gap between Long Branch and Trenton is $11,751 (11.25%). Long Branch's median is +12.40% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Long Branch spans $70,218,Trenton spans $59,755. Long Branch 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, Trenton ($101,252 effective) pays 0.36% more than Long Branch ($100,888 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Long Branch if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($116,223/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($152,604)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Trenton if…
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,252)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Long Branch grew -5.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 5.9% growth in Trenton over the same period.
Long Branch, NJ
$119,145 (2024) → $112,772 (2025)
Trenton, NJ
$95,740 (2019) → $101,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Long Branch, NJ
Trenton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Long Branch or Trenton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Long Branch and Trenton?
Should I relocate from Long Branch to Trenton as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Long Branch vs Trenton?
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