Spokane vs Tumwater: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Spokane, WA and Tumwater, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Spokane, WA | Tumwater, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,318 | $109,683▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.19 | $52.74▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,973▲ | $77,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,209 | $93,184▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $125,640▲ | $122,533 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $128,619 | $144,715▲ |
| Total Employed | 320▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Tumwater, WA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Spokane.
The salary gap between Spokane and Tumwater is $7,365 (7.20%). Tumwater's median is +6.08% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Spokane spans $44,646,Tumwater spans $66,835. Tumwater 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, Tumwater ($102,126 effective) pays 0.16% more than Spokane ($101,965 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Tumwater if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,683/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($144,715)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,126)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Spokane grew 31.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 3.3% growth in Tumwater over the same period.
Spokane, WA
$75,440 (2019) → $99,280 (2025)
Tumwater, WA
$103,030 (2024) → $106,426 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Spokane, WA
Tumwater, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Spokane or Tumwater?
What is the hourly rate difference between Spokane and Tumwater?
Should I relocate from Spokane to Tumwater as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Spokane vs Tumwater?
Related Comparisons
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