Nashua vs Rochester: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Nashua, NH and Rochester, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Nashua, NH | Rochester, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,685 | $106,798▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.68 | $51.34▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $59,771 | $82,132▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $69,012 | $90,921▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $100,141 | $123,501▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,820 | $137,427▲ |
| Total Employed | 21▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Rochester, NH offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Nashua.
The salary gap between Nashua and Rochester is $20,113 (23.20%). Rochester's median is +3.29% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Nashua spans $52,049,Rochester spans $55,295. 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 ($99,532 effective) pays 23.20% more than Nashua ($80,788 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Nashua if…
- ✓Larger job market (21 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,798/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,427)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,532)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Nashua grew -14.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.1% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Nashua, NH
$98,421 (2024) → $84,111 (2025)
Rochester, NH
$95,023 (2024) → $103,627 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Nashua, NH
Rochester, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Nashua or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Nashua and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Nashua to Rochester as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Nashua vs Rochester?
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