Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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How much does a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is $80,993 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a COTA in this city is approximately $80,993. This figure reflects the strong demand for skilled professionals in the field.


Salaries for COTAs vary based on experience and specific job roles. Newer professionals can start with salaries around $60,000, while those with more experience can make as much as $110,000. Most COTAs fall into the salary range between $60,000 and $100,000. As COTAs gain experience and further their careers, many can look forward to salary increases.


The job outlook is bright for COTAs in San Diego, and the earning potential makes this profession attractive for those starting out or looking to advance. With dedication and continuous learning, many can enjoy a rewarding career both financially and personally.

View Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant near San Diego, CA?

Chula Vista, CA offers the highest average salary for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants at $85,581. Following closely, Poway, CA provides a strong average salary of $81,799. Spring Valley and El Cajon also present solid opportunities with average salaries of $79,711 and $76,717, respectively.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Chula Vista, CA with the highest at $85,581 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $76,717.
  1. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $85,581
    Working as an occupational therapy assistant in Chula Vista offers a vibrant community and growing healthcare sector. Nearby facilities like Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center provide fulfilling job opportunities, allowing you to make a positive impact on patients' lives.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  2. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $81,799
    In Poway, you will find a supportive environment for therapy professionals. Local healthcare organizations, including Poway Rehabilitation, seek skilled individuals eager to help clients regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Poway, CA


  3. Spring Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $79,711
    Spring Valley presents a diverse population, creating a dynamic work environment for therapy assistants. You can work at various clinics and rehab centers, contributing to the community's healthcare needs and assisting individuals in their recovery journeys.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Spring Valley, CA


  4. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $76,717
    El Cajon provides an excellent opportunity for therapy assistants to thrive in a growing healthcare landscape. Facilities like the Grossmont Healthcare District often look for dedicated team members to support patients in their rehabilitation and daily activities.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in El Cajon, CA

What are the best paying companies for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in San Diego, CA?

In San Diego, some of the best-paying companies for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants include Absolute Home Health and Hospice, Inc., offering an average salary of $87,841. Arroyo Vista Nursing Center and HealthPRO Heritage also provide competitive salaries of $78,375 and $73,500, respectively. These companies highlight strong opportunities for those seeking rewarding careers in this field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Absolute Home Health and Hospice, Inc. with the highest at $87,841 and Family Health Centers of San Diego.
  1. Absolute Home Health and Hospice, Inc.
    Average Salary: $87,841
    At Absolute Home Health and Hospice, Inc., Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants play a vital role in helping patients regain their independence. The company focuses on home health services across San Diego, allowing you to work closely with clients in their comfortable surroundings.


  2. Arroyo Vista Nursing Center
    Average Salary: $78,375
    Arroyo Vista Nursing Center offers a welcoming environment for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. The facility provides care for a diverse group of patients. Working here means collaborating with a dedicated team in the heart of San Diego.


  3. HealthPRO Heritage
    Average Salary: $73,500
    HealthPRO Heritage employs Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants in various settings, including skilled nursing facilities and rehab centers. With locations throughout San Diego, you will have the chance to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives while advancing your career.


  4. Villa Rancho Bernardo
    Average Salary: $72,111
    At Villa Rancho Bernardo, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants support residents in achieving their rehabilitation goals. This skilled nursing facility ensures a supportive workplace in the beautiful community of Rancho Bernardo, a sought-after area in San Diego.


  5. Reo Vista Healthcare Center
    Average Salary: $71,550
    Reo Vista Healthcare Center provides a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation. As a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, you will work in a team-oriented atmosphere, helping patients regain their skills at this well-respected facility in San Diego.


  6. Family Health Centers of San Diego
    Average Salary: $57,313
    Family Health Centers of San Diego serves diverse populations and hires Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants to enhance patient care. This opportunity allows you to work in various locations across San Diego, making a positive difference in the community.

There are 3,056 Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in the US?

Learn what a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant today.
Position
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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
3,056 Job Openings
Understanding the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire