Mesquite vs Reno: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Mesquite, NV and Reno, NV. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Mesquite, NV | Reno, NV |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $95,585 | $112,428▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $45.95 | $54.05▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,034 | $90,734▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $83,619 | $106,409▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $106,179 | $123,435▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $120,647 | $129,083▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Reno, NV offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Mesquite.
The salary gap between Mesquite and Reno is $16,843 (17.62%). Reno's median is +8.73% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Mesquite spans $51,613,Reno spans $38,349. Mesquite 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, Reno ($111,299 effective) pays 14.46% more than Mesquite ($97,238 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Mesquite if…
- ✓You prefer the Nevada area and lifestyle
Choose Reno if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($112,428/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,083)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,299)
- ✓You prefer the Nevada area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Mesquite grew -7.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.6% growth in Reno over the same period.
Mesquite, NV
$99,838 (2024) → $92,747 (2025)
Reno, NV
$95,210 (2019) → $109,090 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Mesquite, NV
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Mesquite or Reno?
What is the hourly rate difference between Mesquite and Reno?
Should I relocate from Mesquite to Reno as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Mesquite vs Reno?
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