Austin vs Lubbock: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Austin, TX and Lubbock, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Lubbock, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $125,785▲ | $99,515 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.48▲ | $47.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,489▲ | $69,617 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,493▲ | $83,911 |
| 75th Percentile | $133,854▲ | $116,901 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,009▲ | $131,680 |
| Total Employed | 1,600▲ | 190 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lubbock.
The salary gap between Austin and Lubbock is $26,270 (26.40%). 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 Austin spans $52,520,Lubbock spans $62,063. Lubbock 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, Austin ($128,266 effective) pays 17.70% more than Lubbock ($108,978 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($125,785/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,009)
- ✓Larger job market (1,600 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $128,266)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Lubbock if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Austin grew 57.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.6% growth in Lubbock over the same period.
Austin, TX
$77,310 (2019) → $122,050 (2025)
Lubbock, TX
$92,350 (2019) → $96,560 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Lubbock, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Austin or Lubbock?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Lubbock?
Should I relocate from Austin to Lubbock as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Austin vs Lubbock?
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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