Grand Rapids vs Traverse City: Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapy assistant salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Traverse City, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Traverse City, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $69,181▲ | $65,561 |
| Hourly Rate | $33.26▲ | $31.52 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,492▲ | $47,890 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,501▲ | $55,915 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,181▲ | $69,085 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $81,539▲ | $74,934 |
| Total Employed | 370▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapy assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Traverse City.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Traverse City is $3,620 (5.52%). 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 Grand Rapids spans $28,047,Traverse City spans $27,044. Grand Rapids 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 2.93% more than Traverse City ($70,344 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($69,181/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($81,539)
- ✓Larger job market (370 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $72,406)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Traverse City if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapy assistant salaries in Grand Rapids grew 32.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.0% growth in Traverse City over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$50,890 (2019) → $67,290 (2025)
Traverse City, MI
$56,448 (2024) → $63,769 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Traverse City, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapy assistants more: Grand Rapids or Traverse City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Traverse City?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Traverse City as a occupational therapy assistant?
What do entry-level occupational therapy assistants earn in Grand Rapids vs Traverse City?
Related Comparisons
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