San Francisco vs Santa Maria: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between San Francisco, CA and Santa Maria, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Francisco, CA | Santa Maria, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,955▲ | $129,742 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.77▲ | $62.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $99,195▲ | $98,804 |
| 25th Percentile | $127,331▲ | $113,139 |
| 75th Percentile | $159,774▲ | $141,522 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $176,707▲ | $157,115 |
| Total Employed | 1,560▲ | 170 |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Santa Maria.
The salary gap between San Francisco and Santa Maria is $11,213 (8.64%). San Francisco's median is +36.32% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Francisco spans $77,512,Santa Maria spans $58,311. San Francisco 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, San Francisco ($121,920 effective) pays 2.24% more than Santa Maria ($119,250 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,955/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($176,707)
- ✓Larger job market (1,560 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $121,920)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Santa Maria if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in San Francisco grew 28.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.6% growth in Santa Maria over the same period.
San Francisco, CA
$106,520 (2019) → $136,770 (2025)
Santa Maria, CA
$105,290 (2019) → $125,890 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Francisco, CA
Santa Maria, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: San Francisco or Santa Maria?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Francisco and Santa Maria?
Should I relocate from San Francisco to Santa Maria as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in San Francisco vs Santa Maria?
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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