Maricopa vs Tucson: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Maricopa, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Maricopa, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,158▲ | $104,008 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.00▲ | $50.00 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,373 | $83,015▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $88,288 | $89,673▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $124,678▲ | $121,652 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $139,208▲ | $128,887 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 310▲ |
Verdict
Maricopa, AZ offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tucson.
The salary gap between Maricopa and Tucson is $4,150 (3.99%). Maricopa's median is +4.60% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Maricopa spans $61,835,Tucson spans $45,872. Maricopa 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, Maricopa ($109,805 effective) pays 2.30% more than Tucson ($107,340 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Maricopa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,158/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($139,208)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,805)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Maricopa grew 13.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.0% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Maricopa, AZ
$92,855 (2024) → $104,947 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$75,320 (2019) → $100,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Maricopa, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Maricopa or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Maricopa and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Maricopa to Tucson as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Maricopa vs Tucson?
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