Mankato vs Rochester: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Mankato, MN and Rochester, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Mankato, MN | Rochester, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,456▲ | $87,601 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.49▲ | $42.11 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,552 | $84,396▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $87,075▲ | $86,467 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,894▲ | $104,410 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $110,563 | $112,469▲ |
| Total Employed | 50 | 300▲ |
Verdict
Mankato and Rochester are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Mankato and Rochester is $2,855 (3.26%). Mankato's median is -12.52% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Mankato spans $32,011,Rochester spans $28,073. Mankato 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, Mankato ($99,451 effective) pays 3.11% more than Rochester ($96,455 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Mankato if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,456/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,451)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,469)
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Mankato grew 17.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.5% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Mankato, MN
$74,670 (2019) → $87,770 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$73,620 (2019) → $85,000 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Mankato, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Mankato or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Mankato and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Mankato to Rochester as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Mankato vs Rochester?
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