Peoria vs Waukegan: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Peoria, IL and Waukegan, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Peoria, IL | Waukegan, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,886▲ | $99,721 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.03▲ | $47.94 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,947 | $69,474▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,088▲ | $79,927 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,533 | $115,584▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,082 | $136,119▲ |
| Total Employed | 190▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Peoria, IL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waukegan.
The salary gap between Peoria and Waukegan is $165 (0.17%). Peoria's median is -3.40% 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,Waukegan spans $66,645. Waukegan 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, Peoria ($109,487 effective) pays 6.61% more than Waukegan ($102,699 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Peoria if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,886/year)
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,487)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Waukegan if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($136,119)
- ✓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 8.2% growth in Waukegan over the same period.
Peoria, IL
$82,730 (2019) → $96,920 (2025)
Waukegan, IL
$89,461 (2024) → $96,760 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Peoria, IL
Waukegan, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Peoria or Waukegan?
What is the hourly rate difference between Peoria and Waukegan?
Should I relocate from Peoria to Waukegan as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Peoria vs Waukegan?
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