Do occupational therapists make good money? It’s a question that lingers in the minds of many aspiring professionals who are on the hunt for a lucrative career. Well, the answer is a resounding yes! Occupational therapy is a field that has gained much popularity in recent years, and for good reason. The demand for occupational therapists is on the rise, and with it, comes a significant increase in compensation.
For those who are unfamiliar with the profession, occupational therapists provide rehabilitative services to people with injuries or disabilities. They help them improve their ability to perform daily tasks and activities with relative ease. So, why is this profession becoming more and more lucrative? Simply put, there’s a need for it, and there always will be. As our population ages, the demand for occupational therapists will only continue to grow, and with it, comes an increase in earnings.
The average salary for an occupational therapist in the US is around $85,000 per year, with some earning well over six figures. However, the earning potential varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and specialization. Still, it’s safe to say that occupational therapists make a comfortable living. So, for those who are on the fence about pursuing this career path, rest assured that it’s a financially sound decision. With a growing demand for occupational therapists, the opportunities and potential earnings are practically limitless.
Occupational Therapy Salary
Occupational therapists assist individuals in achieving their goals of being able to perform daily tasks and activities while coping with physical or psychological challenges. While this career path can be rewarding, many people also want to know if it is lucrative. Here is a breakdown of the average occupational therapy salary:
- The median annual salary for occupational therapists in the United States is $84,950.
- The lowest 10 percent of occupational therapists make less than $57,490 per year, while the highest 10 percent make more than $120,750 per year.
- In terms of industry, the highest-paying jobs for occupational therapists are typically in nursing care facilities, with an average salary of $94,660 per year. Schools and government agencies are close behind, with average salaries of $82,550 and $81,880, respectively.
It’s important to note that the amount of money an occupational therapist can make varies depending on a number of factors beyond just industry and experience. Factors like location, specialization, and level of education and certification can all play a role in determining an occupational therapy salary. Additionally, it’s important to consider the job outlook for occupational therapists, which is projected to grow at a faster-than-average rate of 16 percent over the next decade.
Overall, occupational therapy can be a satisfying and lucrative career choice for those who are passionate about helping others. While salary isn’t everything, it’s certainly a consideration for many individuals when choosing a career path.
Factors Affecting Occupational Therapy Salary
Occupational therapy is a growing field with a promising job outlook and competitive salary. The average salary for occupational therapists in the United States was $84,950 per year in May 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, several factors can influence an occupational therapist’s salary. Here are some of the factors that affect occupational therapy salary:
- Work Setting: Occupational therapists can work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, long-term care facilities, and private practices. The type of setting can play a significant role in a therapist’s salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest-paying industries for occupational therapists are home health care services, nursing care facilities, and individual and family services. In contrast, occupational therapists working in schools and educational services earn lower salaries on average.
- Geographic Location: Occupational therapy salaries can vary significantly based on the geographic location. Cities and states with higher living costs usually offer higher salaries, whereas those with lower living costs tend to pay less. For instance, California is one of the highest paying states for occupational therapists, with an average salary of $105,170 per year. In contrast, West Virginia is one of the lowest paying states, with an average salary of $74,600 per year.
- Experience: Occupational therapists with more years of experience tend to earn higher salaries. Entry-level occupational therapists typically earn less than experienced therapists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for occupational therapists with less than one year of experience is $62,380 per year, while those with over ten years of experience earn a median salary of $94,360 per year.
It’s essential to note that several other factors not mentioned above can impact an occupational therapist’s salary. These factors include education level, certifications, the demand for occupational therapists in a particular location, and more. However, these three factors can provide some insights into what influences an occupational therapist’s salary.
Continuing Education and Specialization
As mentioned earlier, the experience of an occupational therapist plays a significant role in their salary. However, experience alone may not be enough to secure a high-paying job or career advancement in this field. Continuing education and specialization can help occupational therapists increase their salary and job opportunities.
Occupational therapists can take additional courses, earn advanced degrees, or pursue specialized certifications to expand their skills and knowledge. Continuing education and specialized certifications in fields such as pediatrics, geriatrics, hand therapy, and mental health can lead to higher salaries and more job openings.
| Specialization | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Pediatric Occupational Therapy | $80,696 |
| Geriatric Occupational Therapy | $88,890 |
| Hand Therapy Occupational Therapy | $89,397 |
| Mental Health Occupational Therapy | $82,229 |
According to PayScale, occupational therapists with hand therapy certifications earn an average of $7,000 more per year than those without a certification. Meanwhile, AOTA reports that pediatric occupational therapists with advanced certifications can earn up to $20,000 more per year than entry-level pediatric occupational therapists.
In summary, continuing education and specialization are critical for occupational therapists who want to increase their salary and job opportunities. Obtaining specialized certifications or advanced degrees can help occupational therapists stand out from the competition and demonstrate their commitment to their profession.
Job Outlook for Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapy is a rapidly growing field that offers excellent career opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals. With a projected growth rate of 18% over the next 10 years, occupational therapy is expected to add over 30,000 new jobs to the market. In this section, we will explore the job outlook for occupational therapists in detail.
- Rising Demand: As the aging population increases, the demand for occupational therapy services is expected to rise. Occupational therapists play a vital role in helping seniors maintain their independence and quality of life despite age-related health issues.
- Increasing Awareness: There is growing recognition of the value of occupational therapy among healthcare professionals and the public. The increased awareness has led to more referrals to occupational therapy services, resulting in higher demand for occupational therapists.
- Expanding Scope of Practice: Occupational therapists are no longer limited to traditional settings like hospitals and rehabilitation centers. The scope of practice of occupational therapy has expanded to include schools, community settings, mental health facilities, and home health agencies, creating new job opportunities for occupational therapists.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for occupational therapists was $84,270 as of May 2018. The highest-paid 10% of occupational therapists earned more than $120,750 per year, while the lowest-paid 10% earned less than $57,330 per year.
The table below shows the top-paying industries for occupational therapists:
| Industry | Annual Mean Wage |
|---|---|
| Personal Care Services | $122,260 |
| Home Health Care Services | $93,400 |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | $90,760 |
| Insurance Carriers | $88,600 |
| Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services | $88,240 |
In summary, the job outlook for occupational therapists is bright, with ample job opportunities, good salary prospects, and tremendous career growth potential. The expansion of the scope of practice and increasing awareness of occupational therapy services are likely to result in sustained demand for occupational therapists in the foreseeable future.
Occupational Therapy in Different Settings
Occupational therapy is a fulfilling career that allows you to help individuals achieve their highest potential in numerous settings. As an occupational therapist, you have the flexibility to work in various healthcare areas and settings, such as:
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Outpatient Clinics
- Home Health Agencies
- Skilled Nursing Facilities
Each setting can offer unique opportunities to work with diverse populations, and it can have an impact on your earning potential. Here’s what you need to know:
Occupational Therapy in Hospitals, Schools, and Outpatient Clinics
Occupational therapists who work in hospitals, schools, and outpatient clinics tend to earn the most amount of money. In these settings, you will be working with patients who have complex medical conditions and require critical care. This means that your role as an occupational therapist is extensive, and you will be using advanced techniques and methods to address your patients’ needs.
If you work in these settings, you can expect to earn around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on your experience level and geographic location.
Occupational Therapy in Home Health Agencies and Skilled Nursing Facilities
If you work in a home health agency or skilled nursing facility, you’ll still get to work with patients who have complex medical issues, but in a more relaxed setting. In these settings, you will travel to your patients’ homes or facilities and provide treatment there. You’ll have a flexible schedule and will be able to spend more time with each patient.
Occupational therapists who work in these settings tend to earn around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on their experience level and geographic location.
Occupational Therapy Earnings by Geographic Location
Your location can have a significant impact on your earnings as an occupational therapist. Generally, if you live in a city or metropolitan area, your earnings will be higher due to a higher cost of living. On the other hand, if you live in a suburban or rural area, your earnings may be lower.
| Location | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| New York City, NY | $94,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $84,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $71,000 |
| Rural Areas | $60,000 |
Overall, occupational therapy is a career that can provide you with a good salary, especially if you work in a hospital, school, or outpatient clinic. However, your earnings may vary depending on your experience level and geographic location.
Specialized Areas of Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a diverse profession. There are numerous specialized fields within occupational therapy, each offering unique opportunities for practitioners in terms of job flexibility, income, and career advancement.
Here are the top five specialized areas in occupational therapy:
- Hand Therapy: Hand therapy is a specialized area of occupational therapy that deals with hand and upper limb rehabilitation. Hand therapists use a variety of techniques to help patients manage pain and increase strength and mobility in their hands and upper limbs.
- Pediatric OT: Pediatric occupational therapists focus on working with children who have developmental or physical disorders. This specialized area requires patience, compassion, and the ability to work effectively with children and their families.
- Mental Health OT: Mental health occupational therapists work with individuals who have mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. They teach coping mechanisms, provide emotional support, and help patients develop daily living skills.
- Geriatric OT: Geriatric occupational therapy is concerned with improving the quality of life of seniors. Occupational therapists in this field focus on helping seniors maintain their independence by teaching them new skills, modifying their environment, and providing support for caregivers.
- Industrial OT: Industrial occupational therapists work with companies to improve workplace safety, prevent injury, and optimize worker productivity. They may conduct ergonomic assessments, design job-site modifications, and perform physical capacity evaluations.
In terms of income, some of these specialized fields of occupational therapy may offer better pay than others. Industrial OT, for example, tends to have a higher salary range due to the demand for their services in the business world. However, factors such as location, experience, and specific job requirements can all impact a therapist’s earning potential.
Ultimately, the income potential in occupational therapy is often influenced by an individual’s specific niche, level of education, and work experience. However, each specialized field within occupational therapy offers unique opportunities for growth, learning, and career advancement.
Occupational Therapy vs Other Healthcare Professions
When it comes to pursuing a career in healthcare, occupational therapy is an attractive option for those seeking a rewarding career that also offers financial stability. Here we explore how much occupational therapists make compared to other healthcare professionals.
1. Occupational Therapy vs Physical Therapy
- Occupational therapists have a median annual salary of $84,950, while physical therapists earn a median salary of $89,440 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- While physical therapy is more focused on improving a patient’s movement and physical abilities, occupational therapy focuses on helping patients with daily living activities.
- Both professions require similar education and licensure, but physical therapy typically requires more physical strength and stamina than occupational therapy.
2. Occupational Therapy vs Speech-Language Pathology
- Speech-language pathologists have a median annual salary of $79,120, less than occupational therapy and physical therapy.
- Occupational therapy and speech-language pathology share some similarities in terms of helping patients with daily living skills, but speech-language pathology focuses on communication disorders.
- Speech-language pathology requires a master’s degree, while occupational therapists can obtain a doctorate degree in the field.
3. Occupational Therapy vs Nursing
Registered nurses (RNs) earn a median annual salary of $77,460, slightly less than occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists. However, RNs can earn more in specialized areas such as nurse practitioners or nurse anesthetists.
4. Occupational Therapy vs Physician Assistants
Physician assistants (PAs) have a higher median annual salary of $112,260 compared to occupational therapists. However, PAs require graduate-level education and work closely with physicians, while occupational therapists typically work with other healthcare professionals such as nurses and physical therapists.
5. Job Outlook for Occupational Therapy
The job outlook for occupational therapy is positive, with a projected 16% growth rate from 2019 to 2029 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations, indicating a sustained demand for occupational therapy services.
6. Factors Affecting Occupational Therapy Salary
| Factor | Effect on Salary |
|---|---|
| Experience | More experience typically leads to higher salaries and opportunities for advancement. |
| Location | Occupational therapists in more urban areas or areas with a higher cost of living may have higher salaries. |
| Specialty | Occupational therapists who specialize in areas such as pediatrics or geriatrics may command higher salaries due to increased demand and required expertise. |
Overall, occupational therapy is a promising career option for those seeking a fulfilling career that also offers financial stability. While the salary may not be as high as some other healthcare professions, the job outlook is positive, and the opportunity for advancement and specialization is abundant.
Advancement Opportunities for Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapy is a rapidly growing field, and there are a variety of opportunities for advancement within the profession. Occupational therapists can pursue additional education and training to specialize in a particular area of practice, such as pediatrics or mental health. Here are some advancement opportunities available for occupational therapists:
- Earning a higher degree: Occupational therapists can advance their careers by earning a master’s or doctoral degree in occupational therapy. This additional education can lead to higher-paying job opportunities.
- Specializing in a specific area: Occupational therapists can pursue additional training and certification in a particular area of practice, such as hand therapy or gerontology. This can lead to higher-paying job opportunities and more specialized roles within the profession.
- Management and leadership roles: Occupational therapists can pursue management and leadership roles within healthcare organizations, such as director of rehabilitation services or clinical coordinator. These roles typically come with higher salaries and more responsibility.
Here is a list of some of the job titles occupational therapists can hold as they advance in their careers:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Occupational therapy assistant | $41,000 – $61,000 |
| Occupational therapist | $59,000 – $95,000 |
| Senior occupational therapist | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| Clinical coordinator | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| Director of rehabilitation services | $85,000 – $125,000 |
Overall, occupational therapists have a variety of advancement opportunities available to them within the profession. By pursuing additional education, specializations, and management roles, occupational therapists can increase their earning potential and take on more challenging and rewarding positions.
FAQs about Do Occupational Therapists Make Good Money
1. How much do occupational therapists typically make?
On average, occupational therapists in the United States make around $84,950 per year. However, this can vary depending on factors such as location and level of experience.
2. What industries pay occupational therapists the most?
The highest paying industries for occupational therapists include home health care services, nursing care facilities, and specialty hospitals.
3. Do occupational therapists need a graduate degree to earn a good salary?
Yes, a master’s degree in occupational therapy is required in order to become a licensed occupational therapist and earn a good salary.
4. Are there any additional certifications that can increase an occupational therapist’s salary?
Yes, certifications in specialized areas such as hand therapy or gerontology can increase earning potential for occupational therapists.
5. How does location affect an occupational therapist’s salary?
Occupational therapists in metropolitan areas tend to earn more than those in rural areas. Additionally, the cost of living in certain regions may also impact salary.
6. What is the job outlook for occupational therapists?
The job outlook for occupational therapists is positive, with a projected job growth rate of 18% from 2018-2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
A Closing Note
We hope these FAQs have helped answer your questions about whether occupational therapists make good money. Remember, the amount an occupational therapist earns can vary based on a variety of factors. However, the job outlook for this career is promising, so pursuing a career in occupational therapy can be a wise choice. Thanks for reading and be sure to visit us again for more information on in-demand careers!