Central Falls vs Providence: Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapy assistant salaries between Central Falls, RI and Providence, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Central Falls, RI | Providence, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $68,926 | $69,191▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $33.14 | $33.27▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,258 | $54,037▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $60,901 | $61,943▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $73,055 | $75,606▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $79,796▲ | $78,732 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 440▲ |
Verdict
Providence, RI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapy assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Central Falls.
The salary gap between Central Falls and Providence is $265 (0.38%). Providence's median is -6.92% compared to the US national median of $74,332.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Central Falls spans $26,538,Providence spans $24,695. Central Falls 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, Central Falls ($68,583 effective) pays 0.88% more than Providence ($67,986 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Central Falls if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($79,796)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,583)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Providence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($69,191/year)
- ✓Larger job market (440 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapy assistant salaries in Central Falls grew 3.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.9% growth in Providence over the same period.
Central Falls, RI
$64,910 (2024) → $67,042 (2025)
Providence, RI
$60,140 (2019) → $67,300 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Central Falls, RI
Providence, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapy assistants more: Central Falls or Providence?
What is the hourly rate difference between Central Falls and Providence?
Should I relocate from Central Falls to Providence as a occupational therapy assistant?
What do entry-level occupational therapy assistants earn in Central Falls vs Providence?
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