How to Become a Occupational Therapy Assistants in Florida
Occupational Therapy Assistants in Florida earn a median salary of $71,800/year, which is 5% above the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a occupational therapy assistants takes home approximately $3,496/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a occupational therapy assistants can afford in Florida
Becoming a occupational therapy assistants in Florida
Meet education requirements
Occupational Therapy Assistants positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many occupational therapy assistants 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 therapy assistantss. 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 3,580 occupational therapy assistants. The highest concentrations are in Naples-Marco Island and Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach.
Occupational Therapy Assistants salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naples-Marco Island | $77K | $37.22/hr | 50 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $73K | $35.31/hr | 860 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $73K | $35.13/hr | 100 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $73K | $34.88/hr | 600 |
| Port St. Lucie | $72K | $34.75/hr | 150 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $72K | $34.51/hr | 380 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $72K | $34.41/hr | 100 |
| Jacksonville | $71K | $34.25/hr | 250 |
| Gainesville | $71K | $33.92/hr | 60 |
| Tallahassee | $67K | $32.08/hr | 30 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $67K | $31.99/hr | 160 |
| Homosassa Springs | $66K | $31.94/hr | 90 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach | $66K | $31.85/hr | 110 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $66K | $31.81/hr | 110 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $65K | $31.36/hr | 80 |
Occupational Therapy Assistants salary range in Florida
Occupational Therapy Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a occupational therapy assistants make in Florida?▼
The median occupational therapy assistants salary in Florida is $71,800 per year ($34.52/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $68,340. Salaries range from $59,050 to $79,840.
What are the requirements to become a occupational therapy assistants in Florida?▼
Occupational Therapy Assistants positions in Florida typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a occupational therapy assistants afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $71,800, a occupational therapy assistants in Florida would take home approximately $4,908/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for occupational therapy assistants in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for occupational therapy assistants in Florida are Naples-Marco Island ($77,420), Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach ($73,450), Cape Coral-Fort Myers ($73,060). 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 therapy assistants?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means occupational therapy assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.