Anderson vs Charleston: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Anderson, SC and Charleston, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Anderson, SC | Charleston, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,906▲ | $101,545 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.88▲ | $48.82 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,552▲ | $65,134 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,329▲ | $85,117 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,323 | $124,115▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,818▲ | $131,814 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 320▲ |
Verdict
Anderson, SC offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Charleston.
The salary gap between Anderson and Charleston is $6,361 (6.26%). Anderson's median is +4.36% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Anderson spans $55,266,Charleston spans $66,680. Charleston 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, Anderson ($117,930 effective) pays 17.25% more than Charleston ($100,577 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Anderson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,906/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($134,818)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,930)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Charleston if…
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Anderson grew 34.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.3% growth in Charleston over the same period.
Anderson, SC
$78,091 (2024) → $104,702 (2025)
Charleston, SC
$80,590 (2019) → $98,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Anderson, SC
Charleston, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Anderson or Charleston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Anderson and Charleston?
Should I relocate from Anderson to Charleston as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Anderson vs Charleston?
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