Chesapeake vs Suffolk: Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapy assistant salaries between Chesapeake, VA and Suffolk, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chesapeake, VA | Suffolk, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,839 | $77,594▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.61 | $37.31▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,065 | $57,798▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $58,487 | $67,550▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $77,962 | $83,067▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $90,727 | $99,997▲ |
| Total Employed | 63▲ | 15 |
Verdict
Suffolk, VA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapy assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Chesapeake.
The salary gap between Chesapeake and Suffolk is $9,755 (14.38%). Suffolk's median is +4.39% compared to the US national median of $74,332.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chesapeake spans $46,662,Suffolk spans $42,199. Chesapeake 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, Suffolk ($75,188 effective) pays 14.38% more than Chesapeake ($65,735 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chesapeake if…
- ✓Larger job market (63 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Suffolk if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($77,594/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,997)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,188)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapy assistant salaries in Chesapeake grew -9.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.4% growth in Suffolk over the same period.
Chesapeake, VA
$72,562 (2024) → $65,985 (2025)
Suffolk, VA
$68,999 (2024) → $75,473 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chesapeake, VA
Suffolk, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapy assistants more: Chesapeake or Suffolk?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chesapeake and Suffolk?
Should I relocate from Chesapeake to Suffolk as a occupational therapy assistant?
What do entry-level occupational therapy assistants earn in Chesapeake vs Suffolk?
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