Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides: Salary, Careers, and How to Join (2025 BLS Data)
Occupational therapy and physical therapist assistants and aides earn a national median salary of $63,030 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates. The typical range runs from $32,480 at the 10th percentile to $84,730 at the 90th percentile, meaning most workers fall somewhere between $15.60 and $40.74 per hour.
The mean annual wage for this occupation is $61,510, or roughly $30 per hour. These roles are distinct: assistants typically work under a licensed therapist after completing an accredited program and passing a certification exam, while aides often learn on the job with less formal education.
How much Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides earn
The median annual wage for the combined category of occupational therapy and physical therapist assistants and aides is $63,030. That's the midpoint—half earn more, half earn less. The bottom 10% bring home around $32,480, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $84,730.
Hourly, the mean wage is about $30, with the typical range stretching from $15.60 to $40.74. Actual pay varies by setting: hospital outpatient departments often pay more, while skilled nursing facilities or home health services may offer different compensation.
Note that these figures blend assistants and aides; assistants generally earn more than aides. The BLS reports 216,180 people employed in this combined occupation as of May 2023.
Pay by state
BLS data for this specific occupation does not provide state-level breakdowns. However, in general, states with higher cost of living or stronger healthcare demand—such as California, Texas, and Florida—tend to offer higher wages. Conversely, rural states with lower demand or lower cost of living may pay less. For precise state figures, see the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
How to become Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides
Pathways differ for assistants versus aides, but both typically begin with a high school diploma or equivalent.
For physical therapist assistants (PTAs), you need an associate degree from an accredited PTA program (2 years), which includes classroom and clinical work. Graduates must then pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs to get licensed in most states. For occupational therapy assistants (OTAs), the route is similar: an associate degree from an ACOTE-accredited program followed by the NBCOT exam for certification. State licensure typically follows.
Aides require less formal education. Many learn through on-the-job training. Some employers prefer a high school diploma and related experience, such as in healthcare or fitness. Aides assist with setting up equipment, cleaning, and transporting patients, but do not perform clinical tasks.
- Research accredited programs via CAPTE (PTA) or ACOTE (OTA) directories.
- Complete the required associate degree (typically 2 years, including hands-on clinicals).
- Pass the national certification or licensing exam for your state.
- For aide positions: apply directly with a high school diploma; on-the-job training provided.
Job outlook
Projected growth for this occupation from 2024 to 2034 is not available from BLS at this time. However, employment is currently robust at 216,180 workers. The demand for rehabilitation services is expected to remain strong due to an aging population and increased emphasis on therapy to improve mobility and daily living. Keep an eye on BLS updates for future projections.
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical salary for an occupational therapy or physical therapist assistant?
The national median salary for the combined occupation is $63,030 per year. The bottom 10% earn about $32,480, and the top 10% earn up to $84,730. Hourly wages average around $30.
How many people work as occupational therapy and physical therapist assistants and aides?
As of May 2023, the BLS reports 216,180 people employed in this occupation in the United States.
What education do I need to become a physical therapist assistant?
You need an associate degree from an accredited PTA program and must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam for PTAs to get licensed in your state. The program takes about two years.
Can I become an aide without a degree?
Yes. Aides usually need a high school diploma. Most learn on the job, and formal certification is not required, though it can help.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides data.