Occupational Therapist Salary in San Diego, CA

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

The average salary for a Occupational Therapist is $103,784 per year in San Diego, CA.

Occupational Therapists in San Diego, CA, enjoy a rewarding career both personally and financially. The average yearly salary for an occupational therapist in this vibrant city stands at approximately $103,784. This figure reflects the broad range of experience and skill levels within the field.


Starting salaries begin around $69,500 for those new to the profession. As therapists gain experience and continue to refine their skills, they can see their income increase. For example, an occupational therapist can earn around $78,182 with a few years of experience and up to $121,591 or more as they advance further in their careers.


The salary range is impressive, with top earners making around $165,000 per year. This range showcases the strong demand for occupational therapy services in the area. The investment in education and training can lead to a very fulfilling career both emotionally and financially in the sunny city of San Diego.

View Occupational Therapist Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Occupational Therapist near San Diego, CA?

Occupational therapists can find some of the highest salaries in cities around San Diego, CA. Rancho Santa Fe offers an impressive average salary of $118,111, while Imperial Beach and La Jolla also provide competitive pay at $109,639 and $107,605, respectively. These cities present great opportunities for job seekers looking to excel in their careers in occupational therapy.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Occupational Therapist jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Rancho Santa Fe, CA with the highest at $118,111 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $99,431.
  1. Rancho Santa Fe, CA
    Average Salary: $118,111
    Working in Rancho Santa Fe offers a close-knit community atmosphere. Occupational therapy professionals can find rewarding opportunities with local health services focused on improving quality of life.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Rancho Santa Fe, CA


  2. Imperial Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $109,639
    Imperial Beach provides a unique setting for occupational therapy professionals. The city's focus on wellness promotes career growth as you help clients regain independence and connect with the community.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Imperial Beach, CA


  3. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $107,605
    La Jolla is known for its beautiful coastline and vibrant culture. Occupational therapists here work in prestigious facilities, helping clients with tailored rehabilitation programs while enjoying a scenic environment.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in La Jolla, CA


  4. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $107,279
    In Santee, occupational therapists make a significant impact by working with diverse populations. The local community values health services, creating a supportive network for professionals in this field.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Santee, CA


  5. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $107,192
    Chula Vista offers a dynamic environment for occupational therapists. The city's diverse demographics present unique challenges and opportunities for helping clients achieve their goals.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  6. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $106,602
    Poway is a family-oriented city where occupational therapy professionals can thrive. The focus on family services allows therapists to engage closely with their clients and support their journeys.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Poway, CA


  7. Ramona, CA
    Average Salary: $104,692
    Ramona provides a quaint, rural setting for occupational therapists. Working in this community allows professionals to form lasting relationships while assisting clients with various rehabilitation needs.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Ramona, CA


  8. Lakeside, CA
    Average Salary: $103,708
    In Lakeside, occupational therapists find fulfilling roles in a community that values health and wellness. The scenic outdoor spaces provide a great backdrop for promoting active lifestyles among clients.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Lakeside, CA


  9. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $99,977
    National City is bustling with opportunities for occupational therapy. Professionals can engage with a multicultural population, addressing diverse needs and making a positive difference in the community.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in National City, CA


  10. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $99,431
    El Cajon is a growing city where occupational therapists can find meaningful work. The local healthcare facilities focus on community outreach, providing ample opportunities to support the well-being of residents.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in El Cajon, CA

What are the best paying companies for Occupational Therapist in San Diego, CA?

In San Diego, Occupational Therapists can expect competitive salaries from top employers. Companies like Adecco and Concentra lead the field, offering average annual salaries of $145,833 and $142,143, respectively. Other notable organizations such as AccentCare and Bridge Home Health and Hospice also provide attractive compensation packages, making them great options for job seekers in this field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Occupational Therapist jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Adecco with the highest at $145,833 and UC San Diego Health with the lowest at $121,321.
  1. Adecco
    Average Salary: $145,833
    Adecco offers competitive salaries for Occupational Therapists working in diverse environments. These professionals help clients improve their ability to perform daily activities. Adecco operates in various locations across San Diego, catering to both healthcare facilities and rehab centers.


  2. Concentra
    Average Salary: $142,143
    Concentra employs Occupational Therapists who provide rehabilitation for patients recovering from injury or illness. Their San Diego locations focus on worker health and injury prevention, making the work dynamic and impactful.


  3. AccentCare
    Average Salary: $137,952
    AccentCare values Occupational Therapists as key team members who deliver personalized care to patients at home. The company operates in several San Diego neighborhoods, ensuring community-based support and therapy.


  4. Bridge Home Health and Hospice
    Average Salary: $136,786
    At Bridge Home Health and Hospice, Occupational Therapists work closely with patients in their homes, providing compassionate support. They work in various San Diego areas, making a difference in patients' lives during critical times.


  5. US Department of Veterans Affairs
    Average Salary: $135,536
    The US Department of Veterans Affairs employs Occupational Therapists dedicated to improving veterans' quality of life. They operate in facilities throughout San Diego, focusing on rehabilitation and recovery for those who served.


  6. Athletico Physical Therapy
    Average Salary: $126,000
    Athletico Physical Therapy hires Occupational Therapists who assist patients with injuries or disabilities. With multiple locations in San Diego, the company emphasizes a personalized approach to recovery.


  7. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $125,772
    Kaiser Permanente offers opportunities for Occupational Therapists in various healthcare settings. Their San Diego locations provide integrated care, helping patients regain independence through effective therapy.


  8. Scripps Health
    Average Salary: $122,905
    Scripps Health employs Occupational Therapists in a range of specialties within their hospitals and rehabilitation facilities in San Diego. They focus on helping patients achieve their therapy goals and enhancing their daily lives.


  9. Collage Rehabilitation Partners
    Average Salary: $122,000
    Collage Rehabilitation Partners provides Occupational Therapists the chance to work in outpatient settings across San Diego. Their emphasis is on comprehensive treatment plans that cater to each patient's specific needs.


  10. UC San Diego Health
    Average Salary: $121,321
    UC San Diego Health is known for its innovative approaches and top-quality care. Occupational Therapists in their system work within various departments, impacting patient health and rehabilitation in San Diego.

There are 11,854 Occupational Therapist job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Occupational Therapist in the US?

Learn what a Occupational Therapist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Occupational Therapist today.
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Occupational Therapist
11,854 Job Openings
Understanding the Occupational Therapist Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire