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How to Become a Occupational Therapy Assistants in North Carolina

Occupational Therapy Assistants in North Carolina earn a median salary of $70,940/year, which is 4% above the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a occupational therapy assistants takes home approximately $3,180/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$71K
Median salary in North Carolina
+4%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
1,620
Employed in North Carolina

What a occupational therapy assistants can afford in North Carolina

Gross annual salary$70,940
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$4,592/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home30.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$70,940/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,180/mo

Becoming a occupational therapy assistants in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

Occupational Therapy Assistants positions in North Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many occupational therapy assistants positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification

North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for occupational therapy assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in North Carolina

North Carolina employs 1,620 occupational therapy assistants. The highest concentrations are in Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Asheville.

Occupational Therapy Assistants salary by metro area in North Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia$75K$36.06/hr480
Asheville$73K$35.14/hr70
Raleigh-Cary$73K$34.99/hr180
Pinehurst-Southern Pines$72K$34.74/hr30
Wilmington$72K$34.64/hr120
Durham-Chapel Hill$71K$34.09/hr50
Winston-Salem$71K$34/hr80
Greenville$67K$32.37/hr70
Fayetteville$67K$32.33/hr60
Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton$65K$31.33/hr50
Greensboro-High Point$64K$30.55/hr100

Occupational Therapy Assistants salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$58K
25th percentile
$62K
Median (50th)
$71K
75th percentile
$76K
90th percentile (senior)
$81K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a occupational therapy assistants make in North Carolina?

The median occupational therapy assistants salary in North Carolina is $70,940 per year ($34.11/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $68,340. Salaries range from $57,780 to $80,960.

What are the requirements to become a occupational therapy assistants in North Carolina?

Occupational Therapy Assistants positions in North Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a occupational therapy assistants afford to live in North Carolina?

At the median salary of $70,940, a occupational therapy assistants in North Carolina would take home approximately $4,592/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 30.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for occupational therapy assistants in North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for occupational therapy assistants in North Carolina are Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($75,000), Asheville ($73,090), Raleigh-Cary ($72,780). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does North Carolina have state income tax for occupational therapy assistants?

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $70,940 salary, this means roughly $3,192/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.