Medford vs Springfield: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Medford, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Medford, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,754▲ | $99,401 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.44▲ | $47.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,984▲ | $66,185 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,175▲ | $82,675 |
| 75th Percentile | $115,232▲ | $106,461 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,562▲ | $128,062 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 390▲ |
Verdict
Medford, MA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Medford and Springfield is $1,353 (1.36%). Medford's median is -2.56% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Medford spans $58,578,Springfield spans $61,877. Springfield has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced occupational therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Springfield ($103,477 effective) pays 11.43% more than Medford ($92,861 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Medford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,754/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($134,562)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (390 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,477)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Medford grew -5.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 17.7% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Medford, MA
$102,925 (2024) → $97,762 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$81,930 (2019) → $96,450 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Medford, MA
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Medford or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Medford and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Medford to Springfield as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Medford 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