Cottonwood Heights vs Provo: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Cottonwood Heights, UT and Provo, UT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cottonwood Heights, UT | Provo, UT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,489 | $98,793▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.87 | $47.50▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,264 | $81,479▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $79,593 | $91,455▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $111,574▲ | $104,379 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,179▲ | $120,333 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 160▲ |
Verdict
Provo, UT offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cottonwood Heights.
The salary gap between Cottonwood Heights and Provo is $1,304 (1.34%). Provo's median is -4.46% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cottonwood Heights spans $52,915,Provo spans $38,854. Cottonwood Heights 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, Provo ($100,571 effective) pays 1.20% more than Cottonwood Heights ($99,377 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cottonwood Heights if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($123,179)
- ✓You prefer the Utah area and lifestyle
Choose Provo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,793/year)
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,571)
- ✓You prefer the Utah area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Cottonwood Heights grew 19.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.6% growth in Provo over the same period.
Cottonwood Heights, UT
$79,099 (2024) → $94,594 (2025)
Provo, UT
$85,140 (2019) → $95,860 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cottonwood Heights, UT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Cottonwood Heights or Provo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cottonwood Heights and Provo?
Should I relocate from Cottonwood Heights to Provo as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Cottonwood Heights vs Provo?
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