Amsterdam vs Buffalo: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Amsterdam, NY and Buffalo, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Amsterdam, NY | Buffalo, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $83,287 | $84,056▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $40.04 | $40.41▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,402▲ | $62,413 |
| 25th Percentile | $72,316▲ | $67,906 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,068 | $104,142▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,124 | $109,883▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 970▲ |
Verdict
Buffalo, NY offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Amsterdam.
The salary gap between Amsterdam and Buffalo is $769 (0.92%). Buffalo's median is -18.71% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Amsterdam spans $32,722,Buffalo spans $47,470. Buffalo 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, Buffalo ($87,701 effective) pays 22.04% more than Amsterdam ($71,861 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Amsterdam if…
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Buffalo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($84,056/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($109,883)
- ✓Larger job market (970 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,701)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Amsterdam grew -22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.7% growth in Buffalo over the same period.
Amsterdam, NY
$104,082 (2024) → $80,814 (2025)
Buffalo, NY
$72,350 (2019) → $81,560 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Amsterdam, NY
Buffalo, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Amsterdam or Buffalo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Amsterdam and Buffalo?
Should I relocate from Amsterdam to Buffalo as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Amsterdam vs Buffalo?
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