Atlantic City vs Hamilton: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Atlantic City, NJ and Hamilton, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlantic City, NJ | Hamilton, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,102 | $115,780▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.13 | $55.66▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,811 | $84,293▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $86,024 | $95,610▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $116,963 | $134,552▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,050 | $150,833▲ |
| Total Employed | 110▲ | 21 |
Verdict
Hamilton, NJ offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Atlantic City.
The salary gap between Atlantic City and Hamilton is $15,678 (15.66%). Hamilton's median is +11.97% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlantic City spans $59,239,Hamilton spans $66,540. Hamilton 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, Atlantic City ($101,259 effective) pays 0.75% more than Hamilton ($100,503 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlantic City if…
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,259)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Hamilton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($115,780/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($150,833)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Atlantic City grew -2.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -5.3% growth in Hamilton over the same period.
Atlantic City, NJ
$99,250 (2019) → $97,130 (2025)
Hamilton, NJ
$118,691 (2024) → $112,342 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlantic City, NJ
Hamilton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Atlantic City or Hamilton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlantic City and Hamilton?
Should I relocate from Atlantic City to Hamilton as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Atlantic City vs Hamilton?
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