Seattle vs Spokane: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Seattle, WA and Spokane, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Seattle, WA | Spokane, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $113,222▲ | $102,318 |
| Hourly Rate | $54.44▲ | $49.19 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,210▲ | $83,973 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,112▲ | $89,209 |
| 75th Percentile | $133,906▲ | $125,640 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $142,274▲ | $128,619 |
| Total Employed | 2,020▲ | 320 |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Spokane.
The salary gap between Seattle and Spokane is $10,904 (10.66%). 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,Spokane spans $44,646. 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, Spokane ($101,965 effective) pays 0.08% 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 Spokane if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,965)
- ✓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 31.6% growth in Spokane over the same period.
Seattle, WA
$84,820 (2019) → $109,860 (2025)
Spokane, WA
$75,440 (2019) → $99,280 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
Spokane, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Seattle or Spokane?
What is the hourly rate difference between Seattle and Spokane?
Should I relocate from Seattle to Spokane as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Seattle vs Spokane?
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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