Oklahoma City vs Ponca City: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Oklahoma City, OK and Ponca City, OK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Oklahoma City, OK | Ponca City, OK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,234▲ | $85,402 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.08▲ | $41.06 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,597▲ | $67,192 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,240▲ | $73,433 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,033▲ | $96,822 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $137,575▲ | $105,854 |
| Total Employed | 530▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Oklahoma City, OK offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ponca City.
The salary gap between Oklahoma City and Ponca City is $20,832 (24.39%). Oklahoma City's median is +2.74% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Oklahoma City spans $68,978,Ponca City spans $38,662. Oklahoma City 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, Oklahoma City ($117,505 effective) pays 22.32% more than Ponca City ($96,065 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Oklahoma City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,234/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,575)
- ✓Larger job market (530 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,505)
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Choose Ponca City if…
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Oklahoma City grew 15.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.0% growth in Ponca City over the same period.
Oklahoma City, OK
$88,970 (2019) → $103,080 (2025)
Ponca City, OK
$72,682 (2024) → $82,866 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Oklahoma City, OK
Ponca City, OK
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Oklahoma City or Ponca City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Oklahoma City and Ponca City?
Should I relocate from Oklahoma City to Ponca City as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Oklahoma City vs Ponca City?
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