Orlando vs North Port: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Orlando, FL and North Port, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Orlando, FL | North Port, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,565 | $107,213▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.31 | $51.54▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,381 | $68,257▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,891▲ | $83,458 |
| 75th Percentile | $107,605 | $111,181▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $126,826▲ | $116,788 |
| Total Employed | 1,160▲ | 730 |
Verdict
Orlando and North Port are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Orlando and North Port is $4,648 (4.53%). North Port's median is +3.69% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Orlando spans $60,445,North Port spans $48,531. Orlando 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, North Port ($104,683 effective) pays 3.51% more than Orlando ($101,131 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,826)
- ✓Larger job market (1,160 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose North Port if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,213/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,683)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Orlando grew 11.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.8% growth in North Port over the same period.
Orlando, FL
$89,400 (2019) → $99,520 (2025)
North Port, FL
$93,050 (2019) → $104,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Orlando, FL
North Port, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Orlando or North Port?
What is the hourly rate difference between Orlando and North Port?
Should I relocate from Orlando to North Port as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Orlando vs North Port?
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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