San Jose vs Sacramento: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between San Jose, CA and Sacramento, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Jose, CA | Sacramento, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,058▲ | $126,537 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.81▲ | $60.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $100,432▲ | $97,814 |
| 25th Percentile | $128,619▲ | $110,449 |
| 75th Percentile | $168,060▲ | $140,440 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $175,192▲ | $159,681 |
| Total Employed | 840▲ | 810 |
Verdict
San Jose, CA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sacramento.
The salary gap between San Jose and Sacramento is $14,521 (11.48%). San Jose's median is +36.42% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Jose spans $74,760,Sacramento spans $61,867. San Jose 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 Jose ($127,743 effective) pays 7.69% more than Sacramento ($118,625 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Jose if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($141,058/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($175,192)
- ✓Larger job market (840 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $127,743)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Sacramento if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in San Jose grew 35.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 22.4% growth in Sacramento over the same period.
San Jose, CA
$100,820 (2019) → $136,870 (2025)
Sacramento, CA
$100,290 (2019) → $122,780 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Jose, CA
Sacramento, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: San Jose or Sacramento?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Jose and Sacramento?
Should I relocate from San Jose to Sacramento as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in San Jose vs Sacramento?
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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