Independence vs Kansas City: Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapy assistant salaries between Independence, MO and Kansas City, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, MO | Kansas City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,901 | $73,047▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $31.69 | $35.12▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,027 | $57,152▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $56,731 | $65,469▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $71,074 | $80,747▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $86,671▲ | $83,821 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 400▲ |
Verdict
Kansas City, MO offers better overall compensation for occupational therapy assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Independence.
The salary gap between Independence and Kansas City is $7,146 (10.84%). Kansas City's median is -1.73% compared to the US national median of $74,332.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $38,644,Kansas City spans $26,669. Independence 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, Kansas City ($78,933 effective) pays 7.32% more than Independence ($73,550 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($86,671)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Kansas City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($73,047/year)
- ✓Larger job market (400 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $78,933)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapy assistant salaries in Independence grew 13.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.9% growth in Kansas City over the same period.
Independence, MO
$56,693 (2024) → $64,100 (2025)
Kansas City, MO
$59,250 (2019) → $71,050 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, MO
Kansas City, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapy assistants more: Independence or Kansas City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Kansas City?
Should I relocate from Independence to Kansas City as a occupational therapy assistant?
What do entry-level occupational therapy assistants earn in Independence vs Kansas City?
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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