Franklin vs Milwaukee: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Franklin, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Franklin, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,824 | $96,897▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.67 | $46.58▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,655 | $78,140▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,161 | $82,726▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $105,028 | $105,451▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $116,421▲ | $114,561 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 1,220▲ |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Franklin.
The salary gap between Franklin and Milwaukee is $6,073 (6.69%). Milwaukee's median is -6.29% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Franklin spans $46,766,Milwaukee spans $36,421. Franklin 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, Milwaukee ($99,959 effective) pays 2.79% more than Franklin ($97,242 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Franklin if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($116,421)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($96,897/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,220 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,959)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Franklin grew 14.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.0% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Franklin, WI
$77,219 (2024) → $88,127 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$79,710 (2019) → $94,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Franklin, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Franklin or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Franklin and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Franklin to Milwaukee as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Franklin vs Milwaukee?
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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