Slidell vs Zachary: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Slidell, LA and Zachary, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Slidell, LA | Zachary, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,282 | $88,057▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.97 | $42.34▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $54,230 | $69,341▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $63,124 | $75,829▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $106,162▲ | $96,750 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $116,138▲ | $112,124 |
| Total Employed | 180▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Slidell and Zachary are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Slidell and Zachary is $775 (0.89%). Zachary's median is -14.84% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Slidell spans $61,908,Zachary spans $42,783. Slidell 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, Zachary ($97,516 effective) pays 3.60% 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 Slidell if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($116,138)
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Zachary if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,057/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $97,516)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Slidell grew -8.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.6% growth in Zachary over the same period.
Slidell, LA
$92,880 (2024) → $84,690 (2025)
Zachary, LA
$73,904 (2024) → $85,442 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Slidell, LA
Zachary, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Slidell or Zachary?
What is the hourly rate difference between Slidell and Zachary?
Should I relocate from Slidell to Zachary as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Slidell vs Zachary?
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