New Haven vs Stamford: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between New Haven, CT and Stamford, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Haven, CT | Stamford, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,822 | $107,007▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.88 | $51.45▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,882▲ | $77,185 |
| 25th Percentile | $98,762▲ | $88,106 |
| 75th Percentile | $117,952 | $126,228▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,596 | $143,259▲ |
| Total Employed | 410▲ | 27 |
Verdict
Stamford, CT offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to New Haven.
The salary gap between New Haven and Stamford is $1,185 (1.12%). Stamford's median is +3.49% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Haven spans $56,714,Stamford spans $66,074. Stamford 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, New Haven ($101,208 effective) pays 2.05% more than Stamford ($99,172 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Haven if…
- ✓Larger job market (410 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,208)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Stamford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,007/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($143,259)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in New Haven grew 19.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.7% growth in Stamford over the same period.
New Haven, CT
$85,670 (2019) → $102,680 (2025)
Stamford, CT
$102,143 (2024) → $103,830 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Haven, CT
Stamford, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: New Haven or Stamford?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Haven and Stamford?
Should I relocate from New Haven to Stamford as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in New Haven vs Stamford?
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