San Diego vs Fresno: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between San Diego, CA and Fresno, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Diego, CA | Fresno, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $125,403▲ | $120,261 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.29▲ | $57.82 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $95,629 | $96,588▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $108,739▲ | $106,008 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,401 | $137,492▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $156,806▲ | $155,363 |
| Total Employed | 1,620▲ | 320 |
Verdict
San Diego, CA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fresno.
The salary gap between San Diego and Fresno is $5,142 (4.28%). San Diego's median is +21.28% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Diego spans $61,177,Fresno spans $58,775. San Diego 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, Fresno ($117,721 effective) pays 5.03% more than San Diego ($112,080 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Diego if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($125,403/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($156,806)
- ✓Larger job market (1,620 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Fresno if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,721)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in San Diego grew 28.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.3% growth in Fresno over the same period.
San Diego, CA
$95,000 (2019) → $121,680 (2025)
Fresno, CA
$98,610 (2019) → $116,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Diego, CA
Fresno, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: San Diego or Fresno?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Diego and Fresno?
Should I relocate from San Diego to Fresno as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in San Diego vs Fresno?
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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