How to Become a Occupational Therapists in California
Occupational Therapists in California earn a median salary of $119,470/year, which is 21% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.1%. After taxes and rent, a occupational therapists takes home approximately $5,685/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a occupational therapists can afford in California
Becoming a occupational therapists in California
Meet education requirements
Occupational Therapists positions in California typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many occupational therapists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for occupational therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 12,020 occupational therapists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Santa Cruz-Watsonville.
Occupational Therapists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $135K | $64.77/hr | 700 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $134K | $64.35/hr | 80 |
| Vallejo | $130K | $62.42/hr | 90 |
| Chico | $129K | $62.01/hr | 80 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $129K | $62/hr | 1,510 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $126K | $60.68/hr | 90 |
| Napa | $125K | $59.94/hr | 40 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $124K | $59.57/hr | 650 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $120K | $57.65/hr | 140 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $120K | $57.48/hr | 160 |
| Modesto | $119K | $57.11/hr | 160 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $119K | $56.97/hr | 140 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $115K | $55.47/hr | 4,500 |
| Salinas | $112K | $54.03/hr | 110 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $112K | $53.87/hr | 1,260 |
Occupational Therapists salary range in California
Occupational Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a occupational therapists make in California?▼
The median occupational therapists salary in California is $119,470 per year ($57.44/hr). This is 21% above the national median of $98,340. Salaries range from $82,090 to $154,800.
What are the requirements to become a occupational therapists in California?▼
Occupational Therapists positions in California typically require Master's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a occupational therapists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $119,470, a occupational therapists in California would take home approximately $7,097/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for occupational therapists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for occupational therapists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($134,720), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($133,850), Vallejo ($129,830). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for occupational therapists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.1%. On a $119,470 salary, this means roughly $7,248/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.