Columbus vs Johns Creek: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Columbus, GA and Johns Creek, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, GA | Johns Creek, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,474 | $99,718▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.86 | $47.94▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,011 | $73,582▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,336 | $83,007▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $114,397 | $116,479▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,360▲ | $131,281 |
| Total Employed | 160▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Columbus and Johns Creek are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Johns Creek is $2,244 (2.30%). Johns Creek's median is -3.56% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $68,349,Johns Creek spans $57,699. Columbus 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, Columbus ($109,158 effective) pays 1.91% more than Johns Creek ($107,108 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,360)
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,158)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Johns Creek if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,718/year)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Columbus grew 15.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.8% growth in Johns Creek over the same period.
Columbus, GA
$82,210 (2019) → $94,580 (2025)
Johns Creek, GA
$80,080 (2024) → $96,757 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, GA
Johns Creek, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Columbus or Johns Creek?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Johns Creek?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Johns Creek as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Columbus vs Johns Creek?
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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