Occupational Therapists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Occupational Therapistss out-earn Registered Nursess by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Occupational Therapistss land at $100,330 and Registered Nursess 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 Therapistss is California ($124,510); for Registered Nursess 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 Therapistss or Registered Nursess?
Occupational Therapistss earn more nationally. The median is $100,330 for Occupational Therapistss versus $97,550 for Registered Nursess, 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 12% 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 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. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Occupational Therapistss earn $124,510 vs. $140,270 for Registered Nursess. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.