Richmond vs Sterling: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Richmond, VA and Sterling, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Richmond, VA | Sterling, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,780▲ | $98,291 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.29▲ | $47.25 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,284▲ | $74,656 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,704▲ | $81,111 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,301▲ | $113,292 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $126,207▲ | $125,871 |
| Total Employed | 740▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sterling.
The salary gap between Richmond and Sterling is $10,489 (10.67%). Richmond's median is +5.20% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Richmond spans $46,923,Sterling spans $51,215. Sterling 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, Richmond ($111,161 effective) pays 16.71% more than Sterling ($95,243 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,780/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,207)
- ✓Larger job market (740 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,161)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Sterling if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Richmond grew 23.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.0% growth in Sterling over the same period.
Richmond, VA
$85,620 (2019) → $105,550 (2025)
Sterling, VA
$89,117 (2024) → $95,373 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Richmond, VA
Sterling, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Richmond or Sterling?
What is the hourly rate difference between Richmond and Sterling?
Should I relocate from Richmond to Sterling as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Richmond vs Sterling?
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