Roanoke vs Suffolk: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Roanoke, VA and Suffolk, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Roanoke, VA | Suffolk, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,009▲ | $100,724 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.56▲ | $48.43 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,246 | $75,266▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $81,119 | $84,550▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $117,581▲ | $114,677 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $122,672 | $137,198▲ |
| Total Employed | 180▲ | 15 |
Verdict
Roanoke, VA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Suffolk.
The salary gap between Roanoke and Suffolk is $285 (0.28%). Roanoke's median is -2.31% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Roanoke spans $52,426,Suffolk spans $61,932. Suffolk 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, Roanoke ($107,895 effective) pays 10.55% more than Suffolk ($97,601 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Roanoke if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,009/year)
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,895)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Suffolk if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,198)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Roanoke grew 14.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.0% growth in Suffolk over the same period.
Roanoke, VA
$85,480 (2019) → $98,010 (2025)
Suffolk, VA
$91,322 (2024) → $97,733 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Roanoke, VA
Suffolk, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Roanoke or Suffolk?
What is the hourly rate difference between Roanoke and Suffolk?
Should I relocate from Roanoke to Suffolk as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Roanoke vs Suffolk?
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