Milford vs New Haven: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Milford, CT and New Haven, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Milford, CT | New Haven, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,459 | $105,822▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.74 | $50.88▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,395 | $77,882▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $86,161 | $98,762▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,154▲ | $117,952 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $140,046▲ | $134,596 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 410▲ |
Verdict
New Haven, CT offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Milford.
The salary gap between Milford and New Haven is $2,363 (2.28%). New Haven's median is +2.34% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Milford spans $63,651,New Haven spans $56,714. Milford 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, New Haven ($101,208 effective) pays 5.55% more than Milford ($95,884 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Milford if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($140,046)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose New Haven if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,822/year)
- ✓Larger job market (410 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,208)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Milford grew 0.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.9% growth in New Haven over the same period.
Milford, CT
$100,226 (2024) → $100,387 (2025)
New Haven, CT
$85,670 (2019) → $102,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Milford, CT
New Haven, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Milford or New Haven?
What is the hourly rate difference between Milford and New Haven?
Should I relocate from Milford to New Haven as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Milford vs New Haven?
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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