How much does a Occupational Therapist make?
Occupational Therapists help people of all ages improve their ability to perform daily tasks. They work with those who face physical, developmental, or emotional challenges. This career path offers a range of earnings. Entry-level therapists can expect to make around $57,313 per year. With more experience, salaries can rise significantly.
An Occupational Therapist with about five years in the field might earn between $79,620 and $90,773 annually. Those with over ten years of experience can expect to earn more than $101,926 each year. The average yearly salary for an Occupational Therapist stands at $102,583. This means many in this profession can look forward to steady growth and good pay as they gain experience.
What are the highest paying cities for a Occupational Therapist?

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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $126,383
Salinas offers a welcoming environment for therapists to make a difference. With prominent healthcare facilities like Kaiser Permanente, Salinas Valley Health provides opportunities to work with diverse communities. The city's focus on healthcare growth creates a stable career path.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $125,891
Modesto has seen a rise in demand for rehabilitation services. Working with organizations like Adventist Health, therapists here enjoy a supportive community. The area's diverse population allows for a rich, varied practice.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $124,841
Sacramento, the state capital, has numerous opportunities for those in therapy. Large employers such as UC Davis Health offer advanced practice settings. The city’s focus on healthcare innovation provides a dynamic work environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $124,492
Santa Rosa boasts a strong healthcare sector with employers like Sutter Health. Therapists here benefit from a vibrant community and beautiful surroundings. The city’s emphasis on quality care creates a rewarding career.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $124,263
San Jose's tech-driven economy also needs therapists for rehabilitation. Working with companies like El Camino Health, therapists can find fulfilling roles. The city’s diverse population offers a varied and interesting practice.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $123,551
Chico offers a peaceful setting with opportunities at Encompass Health. The city’s community-focused environment makes it a great place for therapists. Working in Chico means contributing to a close-knit community.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $122,795
San Francisco provides a vibrant setting for therapy professionals. Major employers like UCSF Health offer diverse experiences. The city’s innovative spirit provides many opportunities to grow and excel.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $121,598
Riverside has a strong healthcare system with facilities like Riverside University Health System. Therapists here work in a growing community. The city’s commitment to healthcare creates a stable and rewarding career.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $121,407
Santa Maria offers a small-town feel with opportunities at Marian Regional Medical Center. Therapists here enjoy a supportive community. The city's focus on quality care makes it an excellent place to work.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $119,746
Vallejo provides a diverse practice environment with employers like Kaiser Permanente. Therapists here benefit from a vibrant community. The city’s focus on healthcare excellence offers many career opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Occupational Therapist can work for?

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Best Home Health Providers
Average Salary: $255,303
Best Home Health Providers offers top-notch Occupational Therapist jobs with competitive salaries. They serve various locations across the country, providing care where it's most needed.
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Halcyon Home
Average Salary: $220,000
Halcyon Home provides rewarding opportunities for Occupational Therapists. They focus on delivering high-quality care in multiple states, making it a sought-after employer.
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Hamaspik of Kings County
Average Salary: $216,806
Hamaspik of Kings County values its Occupational Therapists, offering good salaries and a supportive work environment. They operate in New York, providing essential services to the community.
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Ability Therapy, Inc.
Average Salary: $216,111
Ability Therapy, Inc. offers competitive salaries for Occupational Therapists. They provide services in several locations, ensuring access to quality care for many people.
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Royal Care Certified Home Health Care
Average Salary: $194,688
Royal Care Certified Home Health Care provides promising job opportunities for Occupational Therapists. They serve diverse areas, making a difference in patients' lives daily.
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New York Therapy Placement Services, Inc.
Average Salary: $193,114
New York Therapy Placement Services, Inc. is a reliable choice for Occupational Therapists. They offer stable employment and are based in New York, with a strong focus on patient care.
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White Glove Community Care
Average Salary: $192,164
White Glove Community Care provides excellent benefits and salaries for Occupational Therapists. They operate in various locations, delivering compassionate care to those in need.
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Omni Therapy
Average Salary: $190,000
Omni Therapy offers competitive salaries for Occupational Therapists. They have a presence in multiple regions, dedicated to improving patients' quality of life.
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LifeCare of Florida, LLC
Average Salary: $190,000
LifeCare of Florida, LLC provides rewarding Occupational Therapist positions with competitive pay. They serve Florida and surrounding areas, committed to patient care excellence.
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Bridge Home Health and Hospice
Average Salary: $184,162
Bridge Home Health and Hospice offers fulfilling Occupational Therapist roles. They operate in various states, focusing on providing essential home health services to patients.
How to earn more as a Occupational Therapist?
Occupational therapists can find several ways to increase their earnings. Focusing on specific areas can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Specialization often requires additional training and certification but can significantly boost income. For instance, pediatric occupational therapy and hand therapy are among the highest-paying specialties.
Gaining experience is another key factor. Occupational therapists with more years of experience often command higher salaries. Working in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, or private practices, can also lead to better pay. Networking and building relationships within the industry can open up opportunities for higher-paying positions. Continuing education and staying updated with the latest practices in occupational therapy can also lead to more lucrative job offers.
Consider these factors to maximize earnings:
- Specialization in a high-demand area
- Accumulating more experience
- Gaining diverse work experience
- Building a strong professional network
- Pursuing continuing education



