Occupational Therapy Assistants: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 47,910 occupational therapy assistants, and they earn a median of $68,340/year. The range runs from $49K to $87K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level occupational therapy assistants start around $49K. The gap between that and the median ($68K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $87K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $79K | 3,290 |
| Texas | $78K | 5,660 |
| Arkansas | $77K | 620 |
| Maryland | $77K | 640 |
| Nevada | $76K | 190 |
| Washington | $76K | 660 |
| Arizona | $75K | 930 |
| Virginia | $74K | 1,260 |
| Oregon | $74K | 250 |
| South Carolina | $73K | 780 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a occupational therapy assistants make?▼
The median occupational therapy assistants salary in the United States is $68,340 per year ($33/hour). Entry-level positions start around $49,070, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,930.
What education do you need to become a occupational therapy assistants?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for occupational therapy assistants?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for occupational therapy assistants.
What are the highest paying states for occupational therapy assistants?▼
The highest paying states for occupational therapy assistants are California ($79,420), Texas ($77,910), Arkansas ($77,340), Maryland ($77,330), Nevada ($76,450). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.