Colorado Springs vs Pueblo: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Colorado Springs, CO and Pueblo, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Colorado Springs, CO | Pueblo, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,017▲ | $103,410 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.42▲ | $49.72 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,860▲ | $81,716 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,238 | $101,926▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $133,133▲ | $118,158 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $169,338▲ | $162,495 |
| Total Employed | 520▲ | 60 |
Verdict
Colorado Springs, CO offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pueblo.
The salary gap between Colorado Springs and Pueblo is $5,607 (5.42%). Colorado Springs's median is +5.43% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Colorado Springs spans $85,478,Pueblo spans $80,779. Colorado Springs 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, Pueblo ($112,694 effective) pays 4.10% more than Colorado Springs ($108,252 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Colorado Springs if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,017/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($169,338)
- ✓Larger job market (520 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Pueblo if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,694)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Colorado Springs grew 22.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.0% growth in Pueblo over the same period.
Colorado Springs, CO
$86,180 (2019) → $105,780 (2025)
Pueblo, CO
$92,050 (2019) → $100,340 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Colorado Springs, CO
Pueblo, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Colorado Springs or Pueblo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Colorado Springs and Pueblo?
Should I relocate from Colorado Springs to Pueblo as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Colorado Springs vs Pueblo?
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