Madison vs Pewaukee: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Madison, WI and Pewaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | Pewaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,598▲ | $90,018 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.41▲ | $43.27 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,759▲ | $67,035 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,737▲ | $74,648 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,048▲ | $101,510 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $119,148▲ | $107,175 |
| Total Employed | 610▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pewaukee.
The salary gap between Madison and Pewaukee is $8,580 (9.53%). Madison's median is -4.64% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Madison spans $42,389,Pewaukee spans $40,140. Madison 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, Madison ($101,348 effective) pays 5.16% more than Pewaukee ($96,379 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,598/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($119,148)
- ✓Larger job market (610 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,348)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Pewaukee if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Madison grew 31.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.1% growth in Pewaukee over the same period.
Madison, WI
$72,750 (2019) → $95,670 (2025)
Pewaukee, WI
$76,534 (2024) → $87,345 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
Pewaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Madison or Pewaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Madison and Pewaukee?
Should I relocate from Madison to Pewaukee as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Madison vs Pewaukee?
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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