Peoria vs Springfield: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Peoria, IL and Springfield, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Peoria, IL | Springfield, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,886 | $105,956▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.03 | $50.94▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,947 | $72,523▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,088 | $84,324▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $105,533 | $116,839▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,082 | $141,553▲ |
| Total Employed | 190▲ | 100 |
Verdict
Springfield, IL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Peoria.
The salary gap between Peoria and Springfield is $6,070 (6.08%). Springfield's median is +2.47% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Peoria spans $63,135,Springfield spans $69,030. Springfield 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, Springfield ($114,244 effective) pays 4.35% more than Peoria ($109,487 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Peoria if…
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,956/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($141,553)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,244)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Peoria grew 17.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 35.8% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Peoria, IL
$82,730 (2019) → $96,920 (2025)
Springfield, IL
$75,700 (2019) → $102,810 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Peoria, IL
Springfield, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Peoria or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Peoria and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Peoria to Springfield as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Peoria vs Springfield?
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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