Occupational Therapist Salaries

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Occupational Therapist make?

The average salary for a Occupational Therapist is $98,995 per year in the US.

Occupational therapists play a crucial role in helping people regain their independence and improve their quality of life. The salary for occupational therapists can be quite rewarding. On average, they earn about $98,995 per year.


Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and specific job responsibilities. For example, those starting in the field may earn approximately $62,850, while more experienced occupational therapists can earn upwards of $165,000 annually.


The salary distribution shows that about 4.5% earn around $62,850, while 14.6% make around $99,995. As therapists gain experience and expertise, they can increase their earnings. This pattern indicates a promising career path with substantial growth potential.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Occupational Therapist?

Occupational therapists can find some of the best paying jobs in California cities. Modesto leads the way with an average salary of $126,034, followed closely by Chico and Salinas. Other cities like Stockton and Sacramento also offer competitive salaries, making this region a great choice for professionals in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Occupational Therapist jobs, highlighting Modesto, CA with the highest at $126,034 and Santa Maria, CA with the lowest at $111,645.
  1. Modesto, CA
    Average Salary: $126,034
    In Modesto, you will find a growing demand for rehabilitation services. Working in this city allows you to collaborate with healthcare providers like Memorial Medical Center, making a positive impact on patients' recovery.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Modesto, CA


  2. Chico, CA
    Average Salary: $119,373
    Chico offers a supportive community focused on health and wellness. You can work alongside organizations like Enloe Medical Center, where you help individuals improve their daily living skills and regain independence.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Chico, CA


  3. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $116,614
    Salinas is known for its diverse population and commitment to health services. As a therapist here, you may work with local clinics and schools, providing essential support to children and adults alike.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Salinas, CA


  4. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $116,351
    Stockton boasts a variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals to outpatient facilities. You can play a role in improving the lives of individuals at institutions such as Dameron Hospital.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Stockton, CA


  5. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $116,231
    In Sacramento, opportunities abound in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. You'll work in a dynamic environment, making a difference alongside major employers like UC Davis Health.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Sacramento, CA


  6. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $115,816
    San Francisco presents a vibrant healthcare landscape rich with innovation. You may find yourself working in respected facilities like UCSF Medical Center, contributing to groundbreaking rehabilitation practices.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  7. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $115,417
    San Jose is home to numerous healthcare organizations focused on advanced rehabilitation techniques. You can collaborate with companies such as Regional Medical Center, enhancing the quality of life for your patients.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in San Jose, CA


  8. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $113,366
    Santa Rosa combines a beautiful setting with a strong healthcare network. You have the chance to work in facilities like Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, helping communities recover and thrive.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  9. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $113,015
    Vallejo offers a range of services aimed at improving patient health. You might find fulfilling roles at local healthcare organizations, focusing on restoring function and mobility.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Vallejo, CA


  10. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $111,645
    In Santa Maria, the demand for rehabilitation professionals continues to grow. Working at facilities in the area allows you to aid individuals on their path to recovery and enhance their daily lives.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Santa Maria, CA

What are the best companies a Occupational Therapist can work for?

Occupational Therapists can find some of the best salaries at companies like Pete Health, where the average pay reaches an impressive $400,000. HealthONE and Best Home Health Providers also offer lucrative positions, with average salaries of around $382,436 and $216,625, respectively. With various organizations like White Glove Placement, Inc. and CarePine Home Health providing solid compensation options, job seekers can pursue rewarding careers while earning competitive wages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Occupational Therapist jobs, highlighting Pete Health with the highest at $400,000 and Rehab at Home Healthcare Services with the lowest at $178,182.
  1. Pete Health
    Average Salary: $400,000
    Pete Health offers competitive salaries for Occupational Therapists, providing excellent opportunities for growth. They operate in several states, helping patients from various backgrounds.


  2. HealthONE
    Average Salary: $382,436
    HealthONE is known for its supportive environment for Occupational Therapists. Their locations across Colorado make it a great choice for professionals seeking rewarding careers.


  3. Best Home Health Providers
    Average Salary: $216,625
    Best Home Health Providers focuses on delivering top-notch care. They have multiple locations, allowing Occupational Therapists to work closely with a diverse clientele.


  4. White Glove Placement, Inc.
    Average Salary: $205,647
    White Glove Placement, Inc. recruits talented Occupational Therapists across the United States. They prioritize career development and support their therapists effectively.


  5. White Glove Community Care
    Average Salary: $200,116
    White Glove Community Care emphasizes patient-centered therapy. They hire Occupational Therapists in various regions, creating positive impacts in local communities.


  6. CarePine Home Health
    Average Salary: $200,000
    CarePine Home Health values the contributions of Occupational Therapists. They provide services in different areas, fostering a collaborative work environment.


  7. Premier Home Health Providers, Inc.
    Average Salary: $200,000
    Premier Home Health Providers, Inc. offers a nurturing atmosphere for Occupational Therapists. Their multiple office locations ensure varied job opportunities.


  8. Omni Therapy
    Average Salary: $199,851
    Omni Therapy provides excellent pay for Occupational Therapists. They have a strong presence in several states, offering versatile work settings.


  9. Ability Therapy, Inc.
    Average Salary: $196,136
    Ability Therapy, Inc. prides itself on quality care. They welcome Occupational Therapists at various locations, promoting a focus on patient improvement.


  10. Rehab at Home Healthcare Services
    Average Salary: $178,182
    Rehab at Home Healthcare Services specializes in home therapy. They seek skilled Occupational Therapists to work with patients in their homes, providing flexible job options.

How to earn more as a Occupational Therapist?

To earn more as an Occupational Therapist, focus on these key factors:

  1. Gain Experience: More years in the field can lead to higher pay. Work in diverse settings to enhance your skills.
  2. Specialize: Consider focusing on a niche area, such as pediatrics or geriatrics. Specializing often leads to higher demand and better salaries.
  3. Continuing Education: Attend workshops and obtain certifications. Extra training increases your value and can help you earn more.
  4. Network: Build relationships with other professionals in your field. Networking can lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation.
  5. Negotiate Salary: When presented with a job offer, confidently discuss your worth. Research industry standards to support your request for a better salary.

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Currently 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.
Position
Overview
Occupational Therapist
11,854 Job Openings