Occupational Therapy Salary in US in 2023

occupational therapy salary

Are you curious about the projected occupational therapy salary in the US for 2023? Join me as we delve into the details of this thriving healthcare profession’s earnings.

Factual data: The average salary for occupational therapists in the US in 2023 is estimated to be around $79,538. However, the actual salary can vary based on factors such as location, years of experience, and job setting.

Key Takeaways:

  • The average salary for occupational therapists in the US in 2023 is estimated to be around $79,538.
  • Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, years of experience, and job setting.
  • The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) reported a median salary of $72,373 in 2018.
  • The Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) reported a median annual pay of $85,570 in 2021.
  • Other sources such as Glassdoor, OTSalary.com, PayScale.com, and WebPT provide different salary figures.

Factors Affecting Occupational Therapy Salaries

Several factors come into play when determining an occupational therapy salary, including location, years of experience, and job setting. These factors can significantly impact the earning potential of occupational therapists in the United States.

Firstly, location plays a crucial role in determining salary levels for occupational therapists. Certain states, such as Alaska, California, and New Jersey, offer higher pay rates compared to others. This disparity can be attributed to variations in the cost of living, demand for occupational therapy services, and state-specific regulations.

Secondly, years of experience can influence an occupational therapist’s salary. As practitioners gain more experience in the field, they often become more specialized and take on higher-level responsibilities, which can lead to increased earning potential. Employers typically reward occupational therapists with higher salaries as they gain expertise and demonstrate a track record of success in their practice.

Lastly, the job setting can affect an occupational therapist’s salary. Occupational therapists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. Each setting may offer different salary structures and benefits, with some settings providing more competitive compensation packages than others.

factors affecting occupational therapy salaries

State Median Salary
Alaska $87,410
California $90,370
New Jersey $87,220
Texas $84,390
Florida $82,960

It is important to remember that while occupational therapy can provide a good income, it may not be as lucrative as certain other professions. However, the rewarding nature of the work and the positive impact on patients’ lives often outweigh the salary considerations for many occupational therapists.

Average Salary for Occupational Therapists in 2023

Based on projections, the average salary for occupational therapists in the United States in 2023 is estimated to be around $79,538. However, it is important to note that this figure can vary depending on several factors such as location, years of experience, and job setting.

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) reported a median salary of $72,373 for occupational therapists in 2018. It’s worth mentioning that salaries within the field can vary based on an individual’s experience level. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), the median annual pay for occupational therapists was $85,570 in 2021.

Various alternate sources provide different salary figures for occupational therapists as well. Websites like Glassdoor, OTSalary.com, PayScale.com, and WebPT report average salaries ranging from $68,790 to $95,301. These variations reflect the different data sources and methodologies used to collect salary information.

Additionally, it is important to consider that occupational therapy salaries can also vary by state. Some of the highest paying states for occupational therapists include Alaska, California, and New Jersey. Therefore, it’s crucial for occupational therapists to take into account regional differences when evaluating potential job opportunities.

While occupational therapists can earn a good income, it’s crucial to note that their salaries may not be as high as those in certain other professions such as radiologists or software engineers. However, the field of occupational therapy offers its own unique rewards and opportunities for personal and professional growth, making it an attractive career choice for many.

Occupational Therapy Salary

Source Average Salary
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) $72,373 (2018)
Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) $85,570 (2021)
Glassdoor $68,790 – $95,301
OTSalary.com $70,000 – $90,000
PayScale.com $75,000 – $88,000
WebPT $70,000 – $95,000

Median Salaries Reported by AOTA and BLS

In 2018, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) reported a median salary of $72,373 for occupational therapists, with salaries varying based on experience. This data provides insight into the average earnings within the field. However, it is important to consider that this figure is specific to the year 2018 and may not accurately reflect current salary trends.

On the other hand, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) reported a median annual pay of $85,570 for occupational therapists in 2021. This updated data from the BLS serves as a valuable resource for understanding the industry’s current salary landscape. It is worth noting that the BLS provides data based on nationwide averages, and salaries can vary significantly depending on factors such as geographical location and job setting.

While the median salaries reported by AOTA and BLS offer valuable insights, it is also worth exploring additional sources for a more comprehensive understanding of occupational therapy salaries. Websites such as Glassdoor, OTSalary.com, PayScale.com, and WebPT provide a range of salary figures for occupational therapists. These sources offer different perspectives and can provide a more accurate representation of salary expectations.

Ultimately, it is crucial for aspiring occupational therapists and professionals already in the field to consider multiple sources of salary data and factors that can impact earnings, such as years of experience, geographical location, and the specific job setting. By understanding the range of salaries and the variables that contribute to them, individuals can make informed decisions when it comes to their career paths and negotiating compensation.

Year Organization Median Salary
2018 AOTA $72,373
2021 BLS $85,570

Median Salary Image

  • Glassdoor: Provides salary data based on self-reported salaries from employees
  • OTSalary.com: Offers information on salary ranges specific to occupational therapy
  • PayScale.com: Provides salary estimates based on factors such as experience, location, and job title
  • WebPT: Offers salary data and insights tailored to the field of occupational therapy

Considering the variety of sources and the range of factors that can impact occupational therapy salaries, it is crucial for individuals to conduct thorough research and consult multiple resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of earning potential in the field.

Salary Range from Alternate Sources

Other sources such as Glassdoor, OTSalary.com, PayScale.com, and WebPT provide alternative salary figures, with averages ranging from $68,790 to $95,301. These figures give us a broader perspective on the salary range for occupational therapists in the United States.

According to Glassdoor, the average base pay for occupational therapists is around $81,123 per year. OTSalary.com reports an average salary of $82,402, while PayScale.com states an average annual salary of $75,000 for this profession. WebPT’s data shows a slightly higher average salary of $88,306 per year.

It’s important to note that these figures are not definitive and can vary depending on factors such as location, years of experience, and job setting. Additionally, these sources may use different methodologies to collect salary data, leading to slight variations in the figures reported.

Salary Range from Alternate Sources

State Variations in Occupational Therapy Salaries

The salary for occupational therapists can vary significantly by state, with Alaska, California, and New Jersey being among the highest paying states. In these states, occupational therapists can expect to earn higher salaries compared to other parts of the country. According to data from the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), the average salary for occupational therapists in Alaska is estimated to be around $95,301, while in California it is around $90,080, and in New Jersey it is around $89,660.

On the other hand, states like Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia have lower average salaries for occupational therapists. In Arkansas, the average salary is estimated to be around $75,000, while in Mississippi it is around $72,120, and in West Virginia it is around $71,270. These lower salaries may be attributed to various factors such as the cost of living, demand for occupational therapy services, and state regulations.

It is important for occupational therapists to consider the state variations in salaries when making decisions about where to practice. While higher paying states may seem more attractive financially, other factors such as job availability, work-life balance, and personal preferences should also be taken into account. Additionally, occupational therapists can negotiate their salaries, especially if they have specialized skills or experience that are in high demand in a particular state or region.

Salary Comparison by State

State Average Salary
Alaska $95,301
California $90,080
New Jersey $89,660
Arkansas $75,000
Mississippi $72,120
West Virginia $71,270

It’s important for occupational therapists to research and consider these variations in salaries as they plan their careers. By understanding the potential salary ranges in different states, they can make informed decisions about where to pursue opportunities that align with their financial goals and personal preferences.

state variations in occupational therapy salaries

It is important to note that while occupational therapists can make a respectable income, it may not reach the levels of professions like radiologists or software engineers. The average salary for occupational therapists in the US in 2023 is estimated to be around $79,538, according to recent data. However, this figure can vary based on several factors such as location, years of experience, and job setting.

According to the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), the median salary for occupational therapists was reported to be $72,373 in 2018. It is essential to consider that salaries can vary significantly based on an individual’s level of experience. On the other hand, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) reported a higher median annual pay of $85,570 in 2021, indicating the potential for growth in the field.

Additional salary figures reported by different sources such as Glassdoor, OTSalary.com, PayScale.com, and WebPT provide a range of estimates, with salaries ranging from $68,790 to $95,301 on average. These figures further demonstrate that the actual salary for occupational therapists can vary depending on various factors and the source of the data.

State Variations in Occupational Therapy Salaries

It is worth noting that occupational therapy salaries can also vary significantly by state. Some states, such as Alaska, California, and New Jersey, are known to offer higher pay for occupational therapists compared to others. It is important for occupational therapists to consider these state variations when making decisions about their career paths and potential salary expectations.

Overall, while occupational therapy can provide a rewarding and fulfilling career, it is crucial to have realistic expectations about the income potential. The field offers a respectable salary, but, as with any profession, it is essential to consider the various factors that can influence earning potential, such as location, experience, and job setting.

considerations occupational therapy salary

In conclusion, the projected average salary for occupational therapists in the US in 2023 is estimated to be around $79,538, with variations based on location, experience, and job setting.

Factual data suggests that the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) reported a median salary of $72,373 in 2018, highlighting how salaries can vary based on experience. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) reported a median annual pay of $85,570 in 2021. Other sources such as Glassdoor, OTSalary.com, PayScale.com, and WebPT provide different salary figures, ranging from $68,790 to $95,301 on average.

Furthermore, it is important to consider that the salary for occupational therapists can also vary by state. According to the data, some of the highest paying states for occupational therapists are Alaska, California, and New Jersey.

While occupational therapists can make a good income, it is crucial to note that their salaries may not be as high as those in professions like radiology or software engineering. However, the field of occupational therapy offers rewarding opportunities to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives, which can be a driving factor for many professionals in the field.

FAQ

What is the average salary for occupational therapists in the US in 2023?

The average salary for occupational therapists in the US in 2023 is estimated to be around $79,538. However, the actual salary can vary based on factors such as location, years of experience, and job setting.

What are the factors that can affect occupational therapy salaries?

Factors that can affect occupational therapy salaries include location, years of experience, job setting, and additional certifications or specializations.

What were the median salaries reported by AOTA and BLS?

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) reported a median salary of $72,373 in 2018, while the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) reported a median annual pay of $85,570 in 2021.

What salary range can be found from alternate sources?

Alternate sources such as Glassdoor, OTSalary.com, PayScale.com, and WebPT provide different salary figures, ranging from $68,790 to $95,301 on average.

How do occupational therapy salaries vary by state?

Occupational therapy salaries can vary by state, with Alaska, California, and New Jersey being some of the highest paying states for occupational therapists.

Is occupational therapy salary as high as other professions like radiologists or software engineers?

While occupational therapists can make a good income, it may not be as high as other professions like radiologists or software engineers. However, occupational therapy offers its own unique rewards and opportunities for growth.