New York vs Buffalo: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between New York, NY and Buffalo, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York, NY | Buffalo, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,565▲ | $84,056 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.27▲ | $40.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,595▲ | $62,413 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,704▲ | $67,906 |
| 75th Percentile | $130,917▲ | $104,142 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $148,499▲ | $109,883 |
| Total Employed | 11,640▲ | 970 |
Verdict
New York, NY offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Buffalo.
The salary gap between New York and Buffalo is $20,509 (24.40%). New York's median is +1.13% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New York spans $73,904,Buffalo spans $47,470. New York 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 York ($92,895 effective) pays 5.92% more than Buffalo ($87,701 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New York if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,565/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($148,499)
- ✓Larger job market (11,640 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $92,895)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Buffalo if…
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in New York grew 11.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.7% growth in Buffalo over the same period.
New York, NY
$91,010 (2019) → $101,460 (2025)
Buffalo, NY
$72,350 (2019) → $81,560 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New York, NY
Buffalo, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: New York or Buffalo?
What is the hourly rate difference between New York and Buffalo?
Should I relocate from New York to Buffalo as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in New York vs Buffalo?
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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