Ferndale vs Grand Rapids: Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapy assistant salaries between Ferndale, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ferndale, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,743 | $69,181▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $31.60 | $33.26▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,336 | $53,492▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $56,298 | $61,501▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $69,491▲ | $69,181 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $75,488 | $81,539▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 370▲ |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for occupational therapy assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ferndale.
The salary gap between Ferndale and Grand Rapids is $3,438 (5.23%). 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 Ferndale spans $27,152,Grand Rapids spans $28,047. Grand Rapids has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced occupational therapy assistants.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Grand Rapids ($72,406 effective) pays 2.65% more than Ferndale ($70,540 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ferndale if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
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
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapy assistant salaries in Ferndale grew 13.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.2% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Ferndale, MI
$56,605 (2024) → $63,946 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$50,890 (2019) → $67,290 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ferndale, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapy assistants more: Ferndale or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ferndale and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from Ferndale to Grand Rapids as a occupational therapy assistant?
What do entry-level occupational therapy assistants earn in Ferndale vs Grand Rapids?
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