Tampa vs Orlando: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Tampa, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tampa, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,710 | $102,565▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.42 | $49.31▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,831▲ | $66,381 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,870▲ | $84,891 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,863 | $107,605▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $115,448 | $126,826▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,660▲ | 1,160 |
Verdict
Orlando, FL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tampa.
The salary gap between Tampa and Orlando is $1,855 (1.84%). Orlando's median is -0.81% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tampa spans $37,617,Orlando spans $60,445. Orlando 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, Orlando ($101,131 effective) pays 1.31% more than Tampa ($99,822 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,660 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,565/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,826)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,131)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Tampa grew 12.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.3% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Tampa, FL
$86,660 (2019) → $97,720 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$89,400 (2019) → $99,520 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Tampa or Orlando?
What is the hourly rate difference between Tampa and Orlando?
Should I relocate from Tampa to Orlando as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Tampa vs Orlando?
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