San Diego vs Stockton: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between San Diego, CA and Stockton, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Diego, CA | Stockton, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $125,403 | $126,753▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $60.29 | $60.94▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $95,629▲ | $84,076 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,739▲ | $108,069 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,401 | $153,662▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $156,806▲ | $153,662 |
| Total Employed | 1,620▲ | 230 |
Verdict
San Diego and Stockton are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between San Diego and Stockton is $1,350 (1.08%). Stockton's median is +22.59% 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,Stockton spans $69,586. Stockton 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, Stockton ($120,615 effective) pays 7.61% 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…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($156,806)
- ✓Larger job market (1,620 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Stockton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($126,753/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $120,615)
- ✓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 28.2% growth in Stockton over the same period.
San Diego, CA
$95,000 (2019) → $121,680 (2025)
Stockton, CA
$95,920 (2019) → $122,990 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Diego, CA
Stockton, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: San Diego or Stockton?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Diego and Stockton?
Should I relocate from San Diego to Stockton as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in San Diego vs Stockton?
Related Comparisons
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