Fort Lauderdale vs Orlando: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Fort Lauderdale, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,067▲ | $102,565 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.55▲ | $49.31 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,265▲ | $66,381 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,725 | $84,891▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,639▲ | $107,605 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,017▲ | $126,826 |
| Total Employed | 29 | 1,160▲ |
Verdict
Fort Lauderdale, FL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Orlando.
The salary gap between Fort Lauderdale and Orlando is $502 (0.49%). Fort Lauderdale's median is -0.32% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fort Lauderdale spans $63,752,Orlando spans $60,445. Fort Lauderdale 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, Fort Lauderdale ($102,249 effective) pays 1.11% more than Orlando ($101,131 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fort Lauderdale if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,067/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,017)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,249)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,160 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Fort Lauderdale grew 8.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.3% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
$92,303 (2024) → $100,007 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$89,400 (2019) → $99,520 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fort Lauderdale and Orlando?
Should I relocate from Fort Lauderdale to Orlando as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Fort Lauderdale vs Orlando?
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