Detroit vs Grand Rapids: Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapy assistant salaries between Detroit, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,611 | $69,181▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.10 | $33.26▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,739▲ | $53,492 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,843 | $61,501▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $78,938▲ | $69,181 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,025▲ | $81,539 |
| Total Employed | 470▲ | 370 |
Verdict
Detroit and Grand Rapids are closely matched on overall occupational therapy assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Detroit and Grand Rapids is $6,570 (10.49%). Grand Rapids's median is -6.93% compared to the US national median of $74,332.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $38,286,Grand Rapids spans $28,047. Detroit 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, Grand Rapids ($72,406 effective) pays 15.99% more than Detroit ($62,425 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,025)
- ✓Larger job market (470 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($69,181/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $72,406)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapy assistant salaries in Detroit grew 13.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.2% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$53,720 (2019) → $60,900 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$50,890 (2019) → $67,290 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapy assistants more: Detroit or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Detroit and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from Detroit to Grand Rapids as a occupational therapy assistant?
What do entry-level occupational therapy assistants earn in Detroit vs Grand Rapids?
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Written by Jordan Lee, MS, OTR/L
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has 10 years of experience as an occupational therapist. Their specialty is working with children with developmental disorders. They have worked in various healthcare settings including schools and rehabilitation facilities.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.81% 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 Lee, MS, OTR/L, a licensed occupational therapy assistant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov