Occupational Therapists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Occupational Therapists out-earn Registered Nurses by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Occupational Therapists land at $100,330 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: occupational therapist programs typically require master's degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Occupational Therapists is California ($124,510); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
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 Therapists or Registered Nurses?
Occupational Therapists earn more nationally. The median is $100,330 for Occupational Therapists versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $3K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Occupational Therapists or Registered Nurses?
Occupational Therapists has the better 10-year outlook at 13.8% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Occupational Therapists or Registered Nurses?
Occupational Therapists typically requires master's degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Occupational Therapists get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Occupational Therapists 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. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Occupational Therapists earn $124,510 vs. $140,270 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.