Estero vs Tampa: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Estero, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Estero, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,054 | $100,710▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.62 | $48.42▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,464 | $77,831▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,186 | $85,870▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $110,603▲ | $105,863 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,230▲ | $115,448 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 1,660▲ |
Verdict
Tampa, FL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Estero.
The salary gap between Estero and Tampa is $1,656 (1.67%). Tampa's median is -2.60% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Estero spans $59,766,Tampa spans $37,617. Estero 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, Tampa ($99,822 effective) pays 1.58% more than Estero ($98,268 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Estero if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,230)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,710/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,660 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,822)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Estero grew 6.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.8% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Estero, FL
$90,677 (2024) → $96,113 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$86,660 (2019) → $97,720 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Estero, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Estero or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Estero and Tampa?
Should I relocate from Estero to Tampa as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Estero vs Tampa?
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