How much does a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant make?
A Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) plays a key role in helping patients recover and improve their daily living skills. This rewarding career offers a competitive salary that can vary based on experience and location. The average yearly salary for a COTA is around $69,966. This figure provides a good starting point for those considering this profession.
The salary for a COTA can range widely depending on several factors. For instance, those with more experience often earn higher salaries. Here are some common salary ranges for COTAs:
- The lowest 10% earn about $50,000.
- The next 20% earn between $55,909 and $61,818.
- The middle 20% earn between $67,727 and $73,636.
- The next 20% earn between $79,545 and $85,455.
- The top 10% earn over $91,364.
What are the highest paying cities for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant?

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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $91,056
In Salinas, occupational therapy assistants work with patients in various settings, including hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Salinas offers a supportive environment for those looking to help others regain independence. Local employers include Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $88,733
San Jose provides a dynamic setting for occupational therapy assistants. They collaborate with patients in clinics and schools. The tech-driven environment offers many opportunities for growth. Notable employers include Kaiser Permanente and Stanford Health Care.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $88,279
San Diego offers a vibrant atmosphere for occupational therapy assistants. They work in diverse settings, from hospitals to private practices. The city's strong healthcare sector provides many job opportunities. Key employers include Scripps Health and Rady Children's Hospital.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $88,088
San Francisco is a bustling city with many opportunities for occupational therapy assistants. They work in hospitals, schools, and private practices. The city's progressive environment supports innovative therapy practices. Major employers include UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $87,045
Stockton offers a welcoming environment for occupational therapy assistants. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and schools. The city's community-focused approach supports patient care. Local employers include St. Joseph's Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $84,785
Vallejo provides a supportive setting for occupational therapy assistants. They work in hospitals, clinics, and schools. The city's strong healthcare system offers many job opportunities. Key employers include Kaiser Permanente and NorthBay Healthcare.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $84,260
Los Angeles offers a diverse environment for occupational therapy assistants. They work in hospitals, clinics, and schools. The city's large population provides many opportunities. Major employers include Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $83,839
Modesto offers a community-focused environment for occupational therapy assistants. They work in hospitals, clinics, and schools. The city's supportive atmosphere aids in patient care. Local employers include Memorial Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $81,539
Chico provides a close-knit environment for occupational therapy assistants. They work in hospitals, clinics, and schools. The city's community support enhances patient care. Key employers include Enloe Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $81,454
Sacramento offers a vibrant setting for occupational therapy assistants. They work in hospitals, clinics, and schools. The city's diverse population provides many opportunities. Major employers include UC Davis Health and Kaiser Permanente.
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What are the best companies a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant can work for?

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Achieve Beyond Pediatric Therapy and Autism Services
Average Salary: $126,109
Achieve Beyond Pediatric Therapy and Autism Services offers rewarding Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs. They work with children and families in various locations. Their focus is on providing personalized care and support.
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Advanced Home Health & Hospice, an Excelin Company
Average Salary: $115,000
Advanced Home Health & Hospice, an Excelin Company, provides excellent Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant positions. They serve patients in their homes across multiple states. They emphasize quality care and patient comfort.
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Powerback Rehabilitation
Average Salary: $106,166
Powerback Rehabilitation offers competitive Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs. They operate in many locations, providing rehabilitation services. Their team-oriented approach makes it a great place to work.
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Nurturing Home Health Care
Average Salary: $105,455
Nurturing Home Health Care provides Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs with a focus on patient care. They serve clients in their homes in various regions. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for their patients.
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Nurse Next Door Home Care Services
Average Salary: $102,931
Nurse Next Door Home Care Services offers Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs with a strong emphasis on home care. They serve clients in many areas. Their goal is to provide personalized care in a home setting.
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Absolute Rehabilitation, Inc
Average Salary: $102,172
Absolute Rehabilitation, Inc offers Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs with a focus on rehabilitation. They operate in various locations, providing quality care. Their team is dedicated to helping patients achieve their goals.
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CVHCare
Average Salary: $97,478
CVHCare provides Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs with a focus on patient care. They serve clients in many areas. Their mission is to provide high-quality care and support to their patients.
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FREMONT HEALTHCARE CENTER
Average Salary: $94,640
FREMONT HEALTHCARE CENTER offers Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs with a focus on patient care. They serve clients in their facility. Their goal is to provide excellent care and support to their patients.
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Vale Healthcare Center
Average Salary: $94,640
Vale Healthcare Center offers Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs with a focus on patient care. They serve clients in their facility. Their mission is to provide high-quality care and support to their patients.
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Mariner Healthcare
Average Salary: $94,640
Mariner Healthcare provides Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs with a focus on patient care. They serve clients in many locations. Their goal is to provide excellent care and support to their patients.
How to earn more as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant?
A Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) can explore several avenues to increase their earnings. One effective strategy is to gain additional certifications. Specializing in areas like pediatrics or geriatrics can open up higher-paying opportunities. Another way is to seek employment in high-demand areas such as rehabilitation centers or schools. Working in these settings often comes with better compensation packages.
Experience plays a crucial role in earning potential. COTAs with more years of experience typically command higher salaries. Networking with other professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities that offer better pay. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can enhance one's network. Lastly, pursuing a master's degree can lead to higher-paying roles, such as becoming an Occupational Therapist. This advanced degree can significantly increase earning potential.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a COTA:
- Obtain additional certifications
- Work in high-demand areas
- Gain more experience
- Network with other professionals
- Pursue advanced degrees



