Shreveport vs Slidell: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Shreveport, LA and Slidell, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Shreveport, LA | Slidell, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,287▲ | $87,282 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.18▲ | $41.97 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,638▲ | $54,230 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,603▲ | $63,124 |
| 75th Percentile | $113,418▲ | $106,162 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $126,991▲ | $116,138 |
| Total Employed | 150 | 180▲ |
Verdict
Shreveport, LA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Slidell.
The salary gap between Shreveport and Slidell is $15,005 (17.19%). Shreveport's median is -1.08% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Shreveport spans $59,353,Slidell spans $61,908. Slidell 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, Shreveport ($120,670 effective) pays 28.20% more than Slidell ($94,129 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Shreveport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,287/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,991)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $120,670)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Slidell if…
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Shreveport grew 7.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -8.8% growth in Slidell over the same period.
Shreveport, LA
$92,560 (2019) → $99,250 (2025)
Slidell, LA
$92,880 (2024) → $84,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Shreveport, LA
Slidell, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Shreveport or Slidell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Shreveport and Slidell?
Should I relocate from Shreveport to Slidell as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Shreveport vs Slidell?
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