Jamestown vs Rochester: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Jamestown, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jamestown, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,553▲ | $84,252 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.62▲ | $40.50 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,737▲ | $59,713 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,723▲ | $67,958 |
| 75th Percentile | $97,880 | $102,174▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,427 | $113,170▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 740▲ |
Verdict
Jamestown and Rochester are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Jamestown and Rochester is $2,301 (2.73%). Jamestown's median is -16.29% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jamestown spans $46,690,Rochester spans $53,457. Rochester has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced occupational therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rochester ($86,826 effective) pays 16.27% more than Jamestown ($74,679 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jamestown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($86,553/year)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,170)
- ✓Larger job market (740 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $86,826)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Jamestown grew -22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 8.5% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Jamestown, NY
$108,164 (2024) → $83,983 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$75,360 (2019) → $81,750 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jamestown, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Jamestown or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jamestown and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Jamestown to Rochester as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Jamestown vs Rochester?
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