Amarillo vs Austin: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Amarillo, TX and Austin, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Amarillo, TX | Austin, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,513 | $125,785▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.73 | $60.48▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,308 | $82,489▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,687 | $101,493▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $130,196 | $133,854▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $143,305▲ | $135,009 |
| Total Employed | 130 | 1,600▲ |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Amarillo.
The salary gap between Amarillo and Austin is $20,272 (19.21%). Austin's median is +21.65% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Amarillo spans $75,997,Austin spans $52,520. Amarillo 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, Austin ($128,266 effective) pays 11.62% more than Amarillo ($114,913 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Amarillo if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($143,305)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($125,785/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,600 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $128,266)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Amarillo grew 13.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 57.9% growth in Austin over the same period.
Amarillo, TX
$90,010 (2019) → $102,380 (2025)
Austin, TX
$77,310 (2019) → $122,050 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Amarillo, TX
Austin, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Amarillo or Austin?
What is the hourly rate difference between Amarillo and Austin?
Should I relocate from Amarillo to Austin as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Amarillo vs Austin?
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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