Intro
Discover the average occupational therapist salary in the US, including hourly and annual wages. Learn how experience, location, and industry impact OT salaries. Get insights into the highest-paying settings and specialties, such as pediatric occupational therapy and rehabilitation. Find out how much occupational therapists make and start planning your career today.
Occupational therapists play a vital role in helping individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities to live independently and participate in daily activities. As the demand for occupational therapy services continues to grow, many individuals are interested in pursuing a career in this field. One of the most common questions asked by aspiring occupational therapists is, "How much do occupational therapists make?" In this article, we will delve into the occupational therapist salary, factors that influence their earnings, and provide insights into the job market.
The median annual salary for occupational therapists in the United States is around $85,950, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, salaries can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, industry, level of experience, and education. In this article, we will explore the occupational therapist salary in different settings and provide information on the highest-paying industries and locations.
Occupational Therapist Salary by Industry
Occupational therapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. The salary can vary significantly depending on the industry. Here are some average salary ranges for occupational therapists in different industries:
- Hospitals: $83,610 - $110,000 per year
- Schools: $65,000 - $90,000 per year
- Rehabilitation centers: $75,000 - $100,000 per year
- Private practices: $80,000 - $120,000 per year
- Nursing homes: $70,000 - $95,000 per year
- Home healthcare: $75,000 - $100,000 per year
Occupational Therapist Salary by Location
The salary for occupational therapists can also vary significantly depending on the location. Some of the highest-paying cities for occupational therapists include:
- San Francisco, CA: $110,000 - $140,000 per year
- New York, NY: $100,000 - $130,000 per year
- Los Angeles, CA: $95,000 - $125,000 per year
- Chicago, IL: $85,000 - $115,000 per year
- Houston, TX: $80,000 - $110,000 per year
On the other hand, some of the lowest-paying cities for occupational therapists include:
- Birmingham, AL: $60,000 - $80,000 per year
- Oklahoma City, OK: $55,000 - $75,000 per year
- Omaha, NE: $65,000 - $85,000 per year
- Wichita, KS: $60,000 - $80,000 per year
- Knoxville, TN: $55,000 - $75,000 per year
Occupational Therapist Salary by Level of Experience
The salary for occupational therapists can also vary depending on the level of experience. Here are some average salary ranges for occupational therapists with different levels of experience:
- Entry-level (0-2 years of experience): $60,000 - $80,000 per year
- Mid-level (2-5 years of experience): $70,000 - $95,000 per year
- Senior-level (5-10 years of experience): $85,000 - $115,000 per year
- Lead/management-level (10+ years of experience): $100,000 - $135,000 per year
Occupational Therapist Salary by Education
The salary for occupational therapists can also vary depending on the level of education. Here are some average salary ranges for occupational therapists with different levels of education:
- Bachelor's degree: $60,000 - $80,000 per year
- Master's degree: $70,000 - $95,000 per year
- Doctoral degree: $85,000 - $115,000 per year
In conclusion, the salary for occupational therapists can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, industry, level of experience, and education. While the median annual salary for occupational therapists is around $85,950, salaries can range from $60,000 to over $140,000 per year. As the demand for occupational therapy services continues to grow, it is essential for aspiring occupational therapists to research the job market and understand the factors that influence their earning potential.
What's Next?
If you are considering a career as an occupational therapist, we encourage you to continue researching the field and exploring the various job opportunities available. Remember to consider factors such as location, industry, and level of experience when evaluating salary ranges. With the right education and training, occupational therapists can enjoy a rewarding and lucrative career helping individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities.
What is the median annual salary for occupational therapists in the United States?
+The median annual salary for occupational therapists in the United States is around $85,950, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
What are the highest-paying industries for occupational therapists?
+The highest-paying industries for occupational therapists include hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation centers.
What are the highest-paying cities for occupational therapists?
+The highest-paying cities for occupational therapists include San Francisco, CA, New York, NY, Los Angeles, CA, Chicago, IL, and Houston, TX.