Philadelphia vs Lancaster: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Philadelphia, PA and Lancaster, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Philadelphia, PA | Lancaster, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,296▲ | $105,595 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.11▲ | $50.77 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,490▲ | $72,595 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,137▲ | $85,612 |
| 75th Percentile | $123,950 | $128,382▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,699▲ | $134,813 |
| Total Employed | 3,410▲ | 240 |
Verdict
Philadelphia, PA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lancaster.
The salary gap between Philadelphia and Lancaster is $701 (0.66%). Philadelphia's median is +2.80% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Philadelphia spans $56,209,Lancaster spans $62,218. Lancaster 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, Lancaster ($107,468 effective) pays 3.68% more than Philadelphia ($103,649 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,296/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,699)
- ✓Larger job market (3,410 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Lancaster if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,468)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Philadelphia grew 16.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.8% growth in Lancaster over the same period.
Philadelphia, PA
$88,540 (2019) → $103,140 (2025)
Lancaster, PA
$78,910 (2019) → $102,460 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Philadelphia, PA
Lancaster, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Philadelphia or Lancaster?
What is the hourly rate difference between Philadelphia and Lancaster?
Should I relocate from Philadelphia to Lancaster as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Philadelphia vs Lancaster?
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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