Lawton vs Tahlequah: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Lawton, OK and Tahlequah, OK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lawton, OK | Tahlequah, OK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,968▲ | $88,242 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.03▲ | $42.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,780▲ | $66,855 |
| 25th Percentile | $98,196▲ | $74,006 |
| 75th Percentile | $125,146▲ | $100,157 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $133,421▲ | $106,534 |
| Total Employed | 30▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Lawton, OK offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tahlequah.
The salary gap between Lawton and Tahlequah is $13,726 (15.55%). Lawton's median is -1.38% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lawton spans $57,641,Tahlequah spans $39,679. Lawton 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, Lawton ($118,649 effective) pays 19.53% more than Tahlequah ($99,260 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lawton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,968/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($133,421)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $118,649)
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Choose Tahlequah if…
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Lawton grew 28.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.0% growth in Tahlequah over the same period.
Lawton, OK
$76,988 (2024) → $98,940 (2025)
Tahlequah, OK
$75,100 (2024) → $85,622 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lawton, OK
Tahlequah, OK
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Lawton or Tahlequah?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lawton and Tahlequah?
Should I relocate from Lawton to Tahlequah as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Lawton vs Tahlequah?
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