Seattle vs Bellingham: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Seattle, WA and Bellingham, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Seattle, WA | Bellingham, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $113,222▲ | $108,234 |
| Hourly Rate | $54.44▲ | $52.03 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,210▲ | $78,212 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,112▲ | $92,775 |
| 75th Percentile | $133,906▲ | $129,011 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $142,274▲ | $132,350 |
| Total Employed | 2,020▲ | 100 |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bellingham.
The salary gap between Seattle and Bellingham is $4,988 (4.61%). Seattle's median is +9.50% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Seattle spans $56,064,Bellingham spans $54,138. Seattle 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, Bellingham ($104,742 effective) pays 2.81% more than Seattle ($101,880 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($113,222/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($142,274)
- ✓Larger job market (2,020 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Bellingham if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,742)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Seattle grew 29.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.4% growth in Bellingham over the same period.
Seattle, WA
$84,820 (2019) → $109,860 (2025)
Bellingham, WA
$87,970 (2019) → $105,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
Bellingham, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Seattle or Bellingham?
What is the hourly rate difference between Seattle and Bellingham?
Should I relocate from Seattle to Bellingham as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Seattle vs Bellingham?
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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