Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary & Career Guide 2025
Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) earned a median salary of $72,300 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The mean hourly wage is about $35, with the highest-paid 10% bringing home over $89,780 and the lowest-paid 10% earning $51,490 or less.
With 51,290 OTAs employed nationwide and a projected growth rate of 19.2% from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than the average occupation — this career offers strong financial and job security for those willing to complete the required education and licensing.
How much Occupational Therapy Assistants earn
The national median salary for occupational therapy assistants is $72,300. The mean annual wage is $70,710, which works out to roughly $35 per hour. Entry-level OTAs (10th percentile) start around $51,490, while experienced practitioners (90th percentile) earn up to $89,780.
Pay by state
Maryland pays OTAs the most, with an average annual wage of $82,010. California follows at $81,770, then Texas at $81,500. Nevada and Arkansas round out the top five with $79,510 and $78,940, respectively. On the lower end, Wisconsin averages $59,960, South Dakota $56,180, and Alaska $53,530.
How to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant
You need an associate degree from an accredited OTA program, typically taking two years. Programs include coursework in anatomy, physiology, and therapeutic techniques, plus supervised fieldwork. After graduating, you must pass the national certification exam administered by NBCOT to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). Most states also require state licensure. The median entry-level salary for new OTAs is around $51,490, but that rises quickly with experience.
- Earn an associate degree from an ACOTE-accredited program (2 years).
- Complete 16+ weeks of fieldwork under a licensed OTR or COTA.
- Pass the NBCOT exam to become a COTA.
- Apply for state licensure where required.
- Start working; many OTAs work in skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, or home health.
Job outlook
Employment of occupational therapy assistants is projected to grow 19.2% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to about 7,200 job openings per year over the decade. The aging baby-boom population will drive demand for therapy services in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for occupational therapy assistants?
Maryland pays the highest average wage at $82,010 per year.
Do you need a degree to become an occupational therapy assistant?
Yes, you need an associate degree from an accredited OTA program. You must also pass the NBCOT exam and obtain state licensure.
Is occupational therapy assistant a growing career?
Yes, the BLS projects 19.2% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 7,200 openings per year.
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 data.