Idaho Falls vs Meridian: Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapy assistant salaries between Idaho Falls, ID and Meridian, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Idaho Falls, ID | Meridian, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $71,675▲ | $71,103 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.46▲ | $34.18 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,967 | $51,924▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $60,582 | $61,345▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $79,105▲ | $76,877 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $89,526 | $90,913▲ |
| Total Employed | 9 | 30▲ |
Verdict
Idaho Falls and Meridian are closely matched on overall occupational therapy assistant compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Idaho Falls and Meridian is $572 (0.80%). Idaho Falls's median is -3.57% compared to the US national median of $74,332.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Idaho Falls spans $38,559,Meridian spans $38,989. Meridian 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, Idaho Falls ($75,210 effective) pays 0.80% more than Meridian ($74,610 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Idaho Falls if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($71,675/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,210)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Meridian if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($90,913)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapy assistant salaries in Idaho Falls grew 13.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.0% growth in Meridian over the same period.
Idaho Falls, ID
$61,713 (2024) → $69,716 (2025)
Meridian, ID
$61,220 (2024) → $69,160 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Idaho Falls, ID
Meridian, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapy assistants more: Idaho Falls or Meridian?
What is the hourly rate difference between Idaho Falls and Meridian?
Should I relocate from Idaho Falls to Meridian as a occupational therapy assistant?
What do entry-level occupational therapy assistants earn in Idaho Falls vs Meridian?
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