Occupational Therapist Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Occupational Therapist make?

The average salary for a Occupational Therapist is $98,167 per year in the US.

Occupational Therapists play a vital role in helping people of all ages improve their ability to perform daily tasks. This rewarding career can offer a good salary. The average salary for an Occupational Therapist ranges from $63,000 to $170,000. This wide range reflects the different levels of experience and specialization.

Factors that can affect salary include location, years of experience, and the type of facility where the therapist works. For example, those in metropolitan areas or specialized hospitals may earn more. Therapists with advanced degrees or certifications often see higher salaries. The demand for occupational therapy services continues to grow, which can lead to better job opportunities and salaries.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Occupational Therapist?

Occupational therapists can find some of the best pay in California cities. Modesto, Chico, and Salinas offer high salaries for this profession. San Francisco, San Jose, and other cities also provide competitive wages. These cities attract therapists with their strong demand for healthcare services. Higher living costs in these areas often lead to better compensation. Job seekers should consider these locations for top-tier earning potential.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Occupational Therapist jobs, highlighting Modesto, CA with the highest at $125,486 and Vallejo, CA with the lowest at $113,365.
  1. Modesto, CA
    Average Salary: $125,486
    Modesto offers a range of opportunities for those in the therapy field. With a growing population, the demand for skilled therapists is on the rise. Local healthcare facilities and rehabilitation centers are always looking for dedicated professionals.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Modesto, CA


  2. Chico, CA
    Average Salary: $119,241
    Chico provides a supportive environment for professionals in the therapy sector. The community values health and wellness, making it a great place to work. Local clinics and schools often seek out experienced therapists.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Chico, CA


  3. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $118,245
    Salinas is a vibrant city with a strong need for therapists. The agricultural community here benefits greatly from rehabilitation services. Many local hospitals and private practices are in search of qualified therapists.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Salinas, CA


  4. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $117,173
    Sacramento offers numerous opportunities for therapists. The capital city has a diverse population and a high demand for healthcare services. Many large hospitals and rehabilitation centers are always hiring.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Sacramento, CA


  5. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $116,725
    Stockton provides a dynamic setting for therapists. The city's healthcare sector is expanding, offering many job openings. Local clinics and community health centers frequently look for skilled professionals.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Stockton, CA


  6. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $116,701
    San Francisco is a bustling city with a high demand for therapists. The urban environment offers many opportunities in both private practices and public health institutions. The city's diverse population benefits from specialized therapy services.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  7. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $115,743
    San Jose is a tech hub with a growing need for therapists. The city's dynamic population and numerous healthcare facilities create many job opportunities. Local clinics and rehabilitation centers are always on the lookout for qualified professionals.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in San Jose, CA


  8. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $114,897
    Santa Rosa offers a welcoming environment for therapists. The city's healthcare sector is robust, with many job openings. Local hospitals and private practices often seek experienced professionals.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  9. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $113,842
    Riverside provides a range of opportunities for therapists. The city's growing population and numerous healthcare facilities create many job openings. Local clinics and community health centers frequently look for skilled professionals.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Riverside, CA


  10. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $113,365
    Vallejo offers a supportive environment for therapists. The city's healthcare sector is expanding, offering many job opportunities. Local hospitals and private practices are always in search of qualified professionals.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Vallejo, CA

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

Occupational Therapists can find rewarding positions at top-paying companies. Guadalupe Regional Medical Center leads the way with a salary of $693,771. Pete Health and HealthONE also offer competitive packages, with salaries reaching $400,000 and $361,802, respectively. These companies value the skills of Occupational Therapists and provide excellent compensation.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Occupational Therapist jobs, highlighting Guadalupe Regional Medical Center with the highest at $693,771 and Ability Therapy, Inc. with the lowest at $196,429.
  1. Guadalupe Regional Medical Center
    Average Salary: $693,771
    Guadalupe Regional Medical Center offers rewarding Occupational Therapist jobs. They provide a supportive environment for therapists to help patients regain their independence. The center is located in Seguin, Texas, and serves the surrounding areas.


  2. Pete Health
    Average Salary: $400,000
    Pete Health is known for its high-paying Occupational Therapist positions. They focus on innovative therapy techniques and patient care. Pete Health operates in various locations, including New York and New Jersey.


  3. HealthONE
    Average Salary: $361,802
    HealthONE provides excellent Occupational Therapist jobs with competitive salaries. They emphasize teamwork and patient-centered care. The company operates in Colorado, offering many opportunities for professional growth.


  4. Best Home Health Providers
    Average Salary: $228,043
    Best Home Health Providers offers Occupational Therapist jobs with a focus on home care. They provide flexible schedules and a supportive work environment. The company serves clients in multiple states, including California and Florida.


  5. Hamaspik of Kings County
    Average Salary: $206,471
    Hamaspik of Kings County offers Occupational Therapist jobs with a strong community focus. They provide a range of services to help patients improve their quality of life. The company operates in Brooklyn, New York.


  6. Premier Home Health Providers, Inc.
    Average Salary: $203,636
    Premier Home Health Providers, Inc. offers Occupational Therapist jobs with a commitment to patient care. They provide home-based therapy services in various locations across the United States.


  7. White Glove Placement, Inc.
    Average Salary: $202,000
    White Glove Placement, Inc. offers Occupational Therapist jobs with a focus on personalized care. They provide a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development. The company operates in multiple states.


  8. White Glove Community Care
    Average Salary: $200,118
    White Glove Community Care offers Occupational Therapist jobs with a strong emphasis on community care. They provide a supportive work environment and opportunities for growth. The company serves clients in various locations.


  9. CarePine Home Health
    Average Salary: $200,000
    CarePine Home Health offers Occupational Therapist jobs with a focus on home care. They provide a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional growth. The company operates in multiple states.


  10. Ability Therapy, Inc.
    Average Salary: $196,429
    Ability Therapy, Inc. offers Occupational Therapist jobs with a commitment to patient care. They provide a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development. The company operates in various locations.

How to earn more as a Occupational Therapist?

Occupational therapists can find ways to increase their earnings through various strategies. By focusing on these key areas, therapists can enhance their skills and marketability, leading to higher pay. One effective way is to gain specialized certifications. These credentials can open doors to higher-paying positions and niche markets. Another factor is to seek out leadership roles within healthcare facilities. Managers and directors often earn more than their non-management counterparts. Continuing education also plays a crucial role. Therapists who pursue advanced degrees or additional training can command higher salaries. Networking within the industry can lead to better job opportunities and salary negotiations. Lastly, therapists who work in high-demand areas or specialties may find themselves in higher-paying positions.

To maximize earnings, occupational therapists should consider the following factors:

  1. Specialized Certifications
  2. Leadership Roles
  3. Continuing Education
  4. Networking
  5. High-Demand Areas

Currently 14,131 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
14,131 Job Openings