How to Become a Occupational Therapists in Florida
Occupational Therapists in Florida earn a median salary of $99,070/year, which is 1% above the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a occupational therapists takes home approximately $5,095/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a occupational therapists can afford in Florida
Becoming a occupational therapists in Florida
Meet education requirements
Occupational Therapists positions in Florida typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many occupational therapists positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for occupational therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 9,230 occupational therapists. The highest concentrations are in Naples-Marco Island and North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota.
Occupational Therapists salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naples-Marco Island | $110K | $52.8/hr | 140 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $104K | $50/hr | 680 |
| Homosassa Springs | $100K | $48.1/hr | 90 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $100K | $47.92/hr | 2,310 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $99K | $47.83/hr | 330 |
| Wildwood-The Villages | $99K | $47.62/hr | 40 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $99K | $47.57/hr | 750 |
| Punta Gorda | $99K | $47.55/hr | 60 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $99K | $47.46/hr | 120 |
| Port St. Lucie | $99K | $47.36/hr | 240 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $98K | $47.34/hr | 1,610 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor | $98K | $47.32/hr | 80 |
| Panama City-Panama City Beach | $98K | $47.02/hr | 90 |
| Jacksonville | $98K | $46.9/hr | 700 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $96K | $46.36/hr | 190 |
Occupational Therapists salary range in Florida
Occupational Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a occupational therapists make in Florida?▼
The median occupational therapists salary in Florida is $99,070 per year ($47.63/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $98,340. Salaries range from $73,570 to $116,010.
What are the requirements to become a occupational therapists in Florida?▼
Occupational Therapists positions in Florida typically require Master's degree. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a occupational therapists afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $99,070, a occupational therapists in Florida would take home approximately $6,507/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 21.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for occupational therapists in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for occupational therapists in Florida are Naples-Marco Island ($109,820), North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota ($104,000), Homosassa Springs ($100,050). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for occupational therapists?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means occupational therapists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.