Tallahassee vs Tampa: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Tallahassee, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tallahassee, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,474 | $100,710▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.35 | $48.42▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,634▲ | $77,831 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,176▲ | $85,870 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,967 | $105,863▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $118,735▲ | $115,448 |
| Total Employed | 190 | 1,660▲ |
Verdict
Tampa, FL offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tallahassee.
The salary gap between Tallahassee and Tampa is $2,236 (2.27%). Tampa's median is -2.60% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tallahassee spans $38,101,Tampa spans $37,617. Tallahassee 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, Tallahassee ($104,850 effective) pays 5.04% more than Tampa ($99,822 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Tallahassee if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($118,735)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,850)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,710/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,660 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Tallahassee grew 12.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.8% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Tallahassee, FL
$85,300 (2019) → $95,550 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$86,660 (2019) → $97,720 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Tallahassee, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Tallahassee or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Tallahassee and Tampa?
Should I relocate from Tallahassee to Tampa as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Tallahassee vs Tampa?
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