Trenton vs Woodbridge: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Trenton, NJ and Woodbridge, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Trenton, NJ | Woodbridge, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,472 | $120,727▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.23 | $58.04▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,057 | $80,929▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $91,806 | $101,823▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $119,591 | $144,788▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,812 | $166,098▲ |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 25 |
Verdict
Woodbridge, NJ offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Trenton.
The salary gap between Trenton and Woodbridge is $16,255 (15.56%). Woodbridge's median is +16.76% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Trenton spans $59,755,Woodbridge spans $85,169. Woodbridge 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, Woodbridge ($104,798 effective) pays 3.50% more than Trenton ($101,252 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Trenton if…
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Woodbridge if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($120,727/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($166,098)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,798)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Trenton grew 5.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -5.3% growth in Woodbridge over the same period.
Trenton, NJ
$95,740 (2019) → $101,370 (2025)
Woodbridge, NJ
$123,762 (2024) → $117,142 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Trenton, NJ
Woodbridge, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Trenton or Woodbridge?
What is the hourly rate difference between Trenton and Woodbridge?
Should I relocate from Trenton to Woodbridge as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Trenton vs Woodbridge?
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