How to Become a Occupational Therapy Assistants in California
Occupational Therapy Assistants in California earn a median salary of $79,420/year, which is 16% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a occupational therapy assistants takes home approximately $3,649/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a occupational therapy assistants can afford in California
Becoming a occupational therapy assistants in California
Meet education requirements
Occupational Therapy Assistants positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many occupational therapy assistants 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 therapy assistantss. 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 3,290 occupational therapy assistants. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Modesto.
Occupational Therapy Assistants salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $97K | $46.4/hr | 300 |
| Modesto | $93K | $44.92/hr | 50 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $92K | $44.25/hr | 170 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $91K | $43.89/hr | 150 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $83K | $40/hr | 30 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $81K | $38.81/hr | 270 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $81K | $38.8/hr | 30 |
| Visalia | $80K | $38.63/hr | 40 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $80K | $38.28/hr | 70 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $79K | $38.11/hr | 330 |
| Fresno | $76K | $36.7/hr | 60 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $75K | $36/hr | 1,500 |
Occupational Therapy Assistants salary range in California
Occupational Therapy Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a occupational therapy assistants make in California?▼
The median occupational therapy assistants salary in California is $79,420 per year ($38.18/hr). This is 16% above the national median of $68,340. Salaries range from $57,820 to $100,860.
What are the requirements to become a occupational therapy assistants in California?▼
Occupational Therapy Assistants positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a occupational therapy assistants afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $79,420, a occupational therapy assistants in California would take home approximately $5,061/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for occupational therapy assistants in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for occupational therapy assistants in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($96,500), Modesto ($93,440), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($92,040). 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 therapy assistants?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $79,420 salary, this means roughly $3,524/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.