Occupational Therapists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses: Who Earns More?
Occupational Therapistss out-earn Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess by $36K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Occupational Therapistss land at $100,330 and Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess at $64,400. The education gap is real: occupational therapist programs typically require master's degree, while licensed practical and licensed vocational nurse programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Occupational Therapistss is California ($124,510); for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess it's Washington ($83,150).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Occupational Therapists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Occupational Therapistss or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess?
Occupational Therapistss earn more nationally. The median is $100,330 for Occupational Therapistss versus $64,400 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess, a difference of $36K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Occupational Therapists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Occupational Therapists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Occupational Therapists typically requires master's degree. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Occupational Therapistss get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Occupational Therapistss at $124,510/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Occupational Therapists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Occupational Therapistss earn $124,510 vs. $79,750 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.