How much does a Occupational Therapist make?
Occupational Therapists play a vital role in helping people of all ages improve their ability to perform daily tasks. This rewarding career offers a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for an Occupational Therapist is around $99,200. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of facility where they work.
The salary range for Occupational Therapists is quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $62,950, while the highest 10% earn over $175,000. Most therapists fall in the middle, with salaries ranging from $83,323 to $124,068. This range shows that with more experience and specialization, earnings can increase significantly. Factors like working in a metropolitan area or a specialized clinic can also boost income.
What are the highest paying cities for a Occupational Therapist?

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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $126,127
Modesto offers a vibrant community for those in the therapy field. With prominent healthcare facilities, job seekers can find rewarding opportunities. Local hospitals and clinics provide excellent environments to make a difference.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $121,537
Salinas is a growing city with many healthcare needs. Working here means you can help a diverse population. Local clinics and rehabilitation centers are always looking for skilled professionals.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $120,065
Chico provides a welcoming atmosphere for therapists. The city's focus on education and health makes it a great place to work. Schools and local hospitals offer many job opportunities.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $119,751
Sacramento is a bustling city with many opportunities for therapists. The state's capital offers a variety of healthcare settings. Government and private facilities are always in need of skilled workers.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $118,668
Santa Rosa offers a mix of urban and rural settings. The city has a strong healthcare system. Local hospitals and private practices provide many job options for therapists.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $118,324
San Francisco, a city known for its diversity, offers many opportunities for therapists. The healthcare sector is robust, with many hospitals and clinics. Working here means you can help a wide range of people.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $117,938
San Jose is a tech hub with a thriving healthcare industry. The city offers many opportunities for therapists. Local hospitals and rehabilitation centers are always looking for skilled professionals.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $117,352
Stockton provides a supportive community for therapists. The city's healthcare facilities are expanding. Local hospitals and community clinics offer many job opportunities.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $117,308
Riverside offers a balanced lifestyle for therapists. The city has a growing healthcare sector. Local hospitals and private practices provide many job options.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $114,232
Santa Maria is a smaller city with a tight-knit community. The healthcare needs here are significant. Local clinics and hospitals offer many opportunities for therapists to make a difference.
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What are the best companies a Occupational Therapist can work for?

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Guadalupe Regional Medical Center
Average Salary: $693,771
Guadalupe Regional Medical Center offers rewarding Occupational Therapist jobs. They provide excellent care in Texas. Their locations include Seguin and Gonzales. They focus on patient-centered care and professional development.
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Pete Health
Average Salary: $400,000
Pete Health is known for its high-paying Occupational Therapist positions. They operate in various locations across the United States. Pete Health emphasizes innovation and patient care. They offer many opportunities for growth.
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HealthONE
Average Salary: $301,733
HealthONE provides competitive salaries for Occupational Therapists. They have locations in Colorado and Kansas. HealthONE focuses on quality care and professional growth. They offer a supportive work environment.
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Hamaspik of Kings County
Average Salary: $217,500
Hamaspik of Kings County offers good salaries for Occupational Therapists. They serve in New York. Hamaspik focuses on community care and patient well-being. They provide a nurturing work environment.
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Premier Home Health Providers, Inc.
Average Salary: $204,706
Premier Home Health Providers, Inc. offers solid salaries for Occupational Therapists. They operate in multiple states. They focus on home-based care and patient support. They provide a stable work environment.
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Ability Therapy, Inc.
Average Salary: $199,000
Ability Therapy, Inc. provides competitive salaries for Occupational Therapists. They serve in California. They focus on patient care and professional development. They offer a supportive work culture.
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White Glove Community Care
Average Salary: $198,445
White Glove Community Care offers good salaries for Occupational Therapists. They operate in several states. They focus on community care and patient support. They provide a positive work environment.
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Omni Therapy
Average Salary: $194,265
Omni Therapy provides competitive salaries for Occupational Therapists. They serve in multiple locations. They focus on patient care and professional growth. They offer a supportive work environment.
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White Glove Placement, Inc.
Average Salary: $194,233
White Glove Placement, Inc. offers good salaries for Occupational Therapists. They operate in various states. They focus on patient care and professional development. They provide a nurturing work environment.
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LifeCare of Florida, LLC
Average Salary: $190,000
LifeCare of Florida, LLC offers competitive salaries for Occupational Therapists. They serve in Florida. They focus on patient care and professional growth. They provide a supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Occupational Therapist?
Occupational therapists can find several ways to enhance their earnings. By focusing on specific areas, they can increase their value in the job market. This can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities. One key factor is gaining specialized certifications. These can make an occupational therapist more attractive to employers. Another way is to work in high-demand areas. These include pediatrics, geriatrics, or sports medicine. Continuing education also plays a role. Keeping skills up-to-date can lead to promotions and higher pay.
Occupational therapists can also increase their earnings by seeking advanced degrees. A master's or doctorate can open doors to higher-paying positions. Working in urban areas or regions with a shortage of therapists can also lead to better pay. Networking with other professionals can uncover hidden job opportunities. These often come with higher salaries. By focusing on these areas, occupational therapists can improve their financial situation.
Here are five key factors to consider:
- Gain specialized certifications.
- Work in high-demand areas.
- Pursue continuing education.
- Seek advanced degrees.
- Work in high-paying regions.



