Honolulu vs Waipahu: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Honolulu, HI and Waipahu, HI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Honolulu, HI | Waipahu, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,260▲ | $120,876 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.10▲ | $58.12 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,461▲ | $86,546 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,953▲ | $98,170 |
| 75th Percentile | $156,194▲ | $135,186 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $174,854▲ | $159,727 |
| Total Employed | 68▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Honolulu, HI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waipahu.
The salary gap between Honolulu and Waipahu is $10,384 (8.59%). Honolulu's median is +26.94% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Honolulu spans $87,393,Waipahu spans $73,181. Honolulu 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, Honolulu ($110,025 effective) pays 8.59% more than Waipahu ($101,321 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Honolulu if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($131,260/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($174,854)
- ✓Larger job market (68 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,025)
- ✓You prefer the Hawaii area and lifestyle
Choose Waipahu if…
- ✓You prefer the Hawaii area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Honolulu grew 2.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 2.4% growth in Waipahu over the same period.
Honolulu, HI
$124,405 (2024) → $127,363 (2025)
Waipahu, HI
$114,563 (2024) → $117,287 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Honolulu, HI
Waipahu, HI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Honolulu or Waipahu?
What is the hourly rate difference between Honolulu and Waipahu?
Should I relocate from Honolulu to Waipahu as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Honolulu vs Waipahu?
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