Phoenix vs Tucson: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,275▲ | $104,008 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.06▲ | $50.00 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,552 | $83,015▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $88,601 | $89,673▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $127,423▲ | $121,652 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $137,771▲ | $128,887 |
| Total Employed | 2,070▲ | 310 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tucson.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Tucson is $4,267 (4.10%). Phoenix's median is +4.71% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $57,219,Tucson spans $45,872. Phoenix 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, Tucson ($107,340 effective) pays 2.42% more than Phoenix ($104,800 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,275/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,771)
- ✓Larger job market (2,070 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,340)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Phoenix grew 11.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 34.0% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$94,550 (2019) → $105,060 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$75,320 (2019) → $100,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Phoenix or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Tucson as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Phoenix vs Tucson?
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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