Maryland Heights vs Springfield: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Maryland Heights, MO and Springfield, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Maryland Heights, MO | Springfield, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,662 | $100,174▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.95 | $48.16▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,195 | $73,915▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $79,592 | $81,108▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $109,565 | $110,418▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $129,249▲ | $127,650 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 270▲ |
Verdict
Springfield, MO offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Maryland Heights.
The salary gap between Maryland Heights and Springfield is $2,512 (2.57%). Springfield's median is -3.12% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Maryland Heights spans $59,054,Springfield spans $53,735. Maryland Heights 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, Springfield ($113,082 effective) pays 3.75% more than Maryland Heights ($108,998 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Maryland Heights if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,249)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,174/year)
- ✓Larger job market (270 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $113,082)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Maryland Heights grew 25.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.1% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Maryland Heights, MO
$75,680 (2024) → $94,762 (2025)
Springfield, MO
$82,280 (2019) → $97,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Maryland Heights, MO
Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Maryland Heights or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Maryland Heights and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Maryland Heights to Springfield as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Maryland Heights vs Springfield?
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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