How Much Do Occupational Therapists Make?

Occupational therapists in the United States earn an average annual salary of $96,790, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With nearly 145,000 professionals employed in this field, occupational therapy continues to be a rewarding and growing career path in health care.

These skilled health care professionals play a vital role in helping people of all ages improve their ability to perform daily activities and live independently. Occupational therapists work with patients who have injuries, illnesses, or disabilities, developing personalized treatment plans to enhance their quality of life. In this article, we'll dive deeper into the world of occupational therapy, exploring how salaries and employment opportunities vary across different regions of the country. We'll also compare this profession to similar roles in the health care industry, providing valuable insights for those considering a career in occupational therapy or looking to advance their current position.

Highest Paying States for Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists looking for lucrative opportunities may want to consider certain states that offer higher average salaries. Here's a look at the top-paying states for this profession, based on recent data:

• California leads with an impressive average annual mean salary of $113,550 and an hourly mean wage of $54.59. The state employs the highest number of occupational therapists, with a total employment figure of 12,470.
• New York follows with an average annual salary of $107,530 and an hourly wage of $51.70, supporting a robust employment number of 10,460.
• Nevada also ranks high with an average annual salary of $107,070 and an hourly wage of $51.48, although it has a smaller workforce of 1,220 occupational therapists.

Other noteworthy states include:

• New Jersey and Colorado, offering average annual salaries of $105,880 and $104,950, respectively. New Jersey employs 4,950 occupational therapists, while Colorado employs 3,540.
• Virginia and Washington also offer competitive salaries, with averages of $102,550 and $101,780, respectively.

These states not only provide higher than average compensation but also show a significant demand for occupational therapists, making them attractive options for professionals in this field.

Comparing Therapist Salaries: Physical, Occupational, and Recreational

When it comes to salaries, physical therapists tend to earn the most among the three types of therapists we're looking at. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), physical therapists earn an average annual salary of $100,440, which breaks down to about $48.29 per hour. This is slightly higher than occupational therapists, who earn an average annual salary of $96,790, or $46.54 per hour. While both professions are similar in their roles of helping people recover from injuries and improve their daily lives, physical therapists generally earn more.

Recreational therapists, on the other hand, have a lower average salary compared to the other two professions. They earn around $60,910 per year, or $29.28 per hour. There are also fewer recreational therapists employed, with about 15,540 in the workforce, compared to 240,820 physical therapists and 144,840 occupational therapists. Despite these differences, each type of therapist plays an important role in promoting health and well-being, and the choice between them can depend on personal interests and career goals.

Bottom Line

If you're considering a career as an occupational therapist, you're looking at a rewarding path with a promising job outlook. Occupational therapy stands out as a vital part of the health care sector, with professionals earning an average annual salary of $96,790. Moreover, with nearly 145,000 occupational therapists employed across the United States, the field is not only stable but also expanding. Here are key takeaways for aspiring occupational therapists:

• Regional Salary Variations: Certain states, such as California and New York, offer higher salaries, with California leading at an average of $113,550 annually. These regions also have a higher demand for occupational therapists, making them attractive for those entering the field.
• Comparison with Similar Professions: While physical therapists enjoy a slightly higher average salary of $100,440, occupational therapists still earn competitive wages compared to recreational therapists, who make around $60,910 annually. Each profession plays a significant role in enhancing patient well-being, and your choice may hinge on your interests and career aspirations.

Occupational therapy not only provides a decent salary but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives by helping them achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life.