Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides Salary: $70,800 Median in 2025
The median salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides in the United States is $70,800, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to roughly $34 per hour. But the pay range is wide: the lowest 10% earn about $45,130, while the top 10% bring in up to $88,900.
How much Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides earn
The median figure of $70,800 is the midpoint: half of workers earn more, half less. The average mean wage lands slightly lower at $68,640, reflecting more people at the lower end. At $34 an hour, this is a solid middle-class income, especially considering the relatively low educational requirements.
Most assistants work in hospitals, nursing facilities, or home health services. Those in home health care often earn toward the top of the range. Overtime is uncommon in this field, but experienced assistants in specialized settings can push past $90,000.
Pay by state
State-level data for this occupation is not available from the BLS as of the 2024 release. The figures above are national aggregates from the OEWS program. Pay differences across states likely follow the general cost-of-living patterns, but no official breakdown exists for this specific job code.
How to become Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aide
The path differs for assistants versus aides. Occupational therapy assistants need an associate degree from an accredited program, plus passing a national exam to get licensed. Most states require a license. The degree typically takes two years and includes supervised fieldwork.
Aides, on the other hand, can often start with a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Some employers prefer candidates with CPR certification or previous healthcare experience.
- Step 1: Earn an associate degree from an ACOTE-accredited program (for assistants) or graduate high school (for aides).
- Step 2: Complete fieldwork hours (for assistants) — usually at least 16 weeks.
- Step 3: Take the NBCOT exam for assistants to get licensed or certified.
- Step 4: Apply for jobs in hospitals, nursing homes, or outpatient clinics.
Job outlook
Projected growth data from 2024 to 2034 is not available for this occupation at the national level. However, the aging U.S. population and increased emphasis on rehabilitation services suggest steady demand. The occupation currently employs 55,600 people, so it's a niche but stable field.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides?
The top 10% earn more than $88,900 per year, according to BLS data.
How much do Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides make per hour?
The mean hourly wage is about $34, with the median salary translating to roughly $34 per hour based on a 40-hour week.
Is Occupational Therapy Assistant a good career?
With a median salary of $70,800 and low educational barriers (an associate degree), it offers strong pay relative to training costs. The work is hands-on and in demand.
Do Occupational Therapy Assistants need a license?
Yes, in most states. Assistants must pass the NBCOT exam and fulfill state-specific licensing requirements. Aides typically do not need a license.
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 Assistants and Aides data.