Highest Paying States for Occupational Therapist License in 2026
Occupational therapists play a crucial role in helping individuals regain or enhance their ability to perform daily activities, making their compensation a topic of interest for many in the field. As of 2026, the average salary for occupational therapists across 51 states stands at $93,040, with a national median of $37,370. This article explores the variations in salaries across different states, highlighting both the highest and lowest paying regions, and discusses factors influencing these figures.
Top 5 Highest Paying States
California leads with an average annual salary of $112,390, influenced by its high cost of living and significant demand for healthcare professionals. New Jersey follows at $104,570, where dense population and healthcare infrastructure boost demand. Alaska's unique geographic and social structure contributes to a salary of $103,180, reflecting the need to attract skilled workers to remote areas. Oregon and Colorado, offering $102,400 and $101,940 respectively, also show higher salaries due to their growing healthcare sectors and competitive job markets.
5 Lowest Paying States
North Dakota presents the lowest average salary at $78,280, attributed to its lower cost of living and smaller population. Maine, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Kentucky follow, with salaries ranging from $79,700 to $82,760. These states generally have a lower cost of living, which corresponds with the lower salary ranges seen in these regions.
What Affects Occupational Therapist License Salary?
Several factors influence the salary of occupational therapists. Experience is a key determinant, as seasoned professionals typically command higher wages. The setting in which one works, such as hospitals or private practices, also affects earnings, with some settings offering higher pay or opportunities for overtime. Specializations within occupational therapy can lead to higher salaries due to the advanced skills and knowledge required. Lastly, the ability to work overtime can significantly boost an occupational therapist's annual earnings.
Salary Comparison Table
Below is a detailed comparison of occupational therapist salaries across all states:
| State | Median Annual Salary | Median Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| California | $112,390 | $54.03 |
| New Jersey | $104,570 | $50.27 |
| Alaska | $103,180 | $49.61 |
| Oregon | $102,400 | $49.23 |
| Colorado | $101,940 | $49.01 |
| New York | $101,840 | $48.96 |
| Nevada | $101,510 | $48.80 |
| Georgia | $101,290 | $48.70 |
| Maryland | $100,430 | $48.28 |
| Hawaii | $100,320 | $48.23 |
| Washington | $100,250 | $48.20 |
| Oklahoma | $99,530 | $47.85 |
| Texas | $98,970 | $47.58 |
| Virginia | $98,510 | $47.36 |
| Connecticut | $98,190 | $47.21 |
| Rhode Island | $97,560 | $46.90 |
| District of Columbia | $97,220 | $46.74 |
| Illinois | $97,040 | $46.65 |
| New Mexico | $96,870 | $46.57 |
| Delaware | $96,160 | $46.23 |
| Florida | $96,010 | $46.16 |
| Massachusetts | $95,830 | $46.07 |
| Alabama | $95,340 | $45.84 |
| Arkansas | $95,230 | $45.78 |
| Louisiana | $95,230 | $45.78 |
| Arizona | $95,020 | $45.68 |
| Mississippi | $94,990 | $45.67 |
| Tennessee | $94,750 | $45.55 |
| Kansas | $94,340 | $45.35 |
| Pennsylvania | $92,660 | $44.55 |
| South Carolina | $91,620 | $44.05 |
| North Carolina | $91,100 | $43.80 |
| Ohio | $90,520 | $43.52 |
| New Hampshire | $87,530 | $42.08 |
| Idaho | $87,170 | $41.91 |
| Missouri | $87,060 | $41.86 |
| West Virginia | $86,450 | $41.56 |
| Indiana | $86,440 | $41.56 |
| Utah | $85,750 | $41.23 |
| Montana | $84,970 | $40.85 |
| Minnesota | $84,850 | $40.79 |
| Nebraska | $84,850 | $40.79 |
| Wyoming | $83,740 | $40.26 |
| Vermont | $83,730 | $40.25 |
| Iowa | $83,260 | $40.03 |
| Michigan | $82,970 | $39.89 |
| Kentucky | $82,760 | $39.79 |
| Wisconsin | $82,720 | $39.77 |
| South Dakota | $79,980 | $38.45 |
| Maine | $79,700 | $38.32 |
| North Dakota | $78,280 | $37.63 |
Regional Patterns
Analysis shows distinct regional patterns in occupational therapist salaries. The West Coast and Northeast regions typically offer higher salaries, reflecting higher costs of living and concentrated urban centers with robust healthcare systems. In contrast, the Midwest and parts of the South show lower salary averages, correlating with lower living costs and less densely populated areas.
Maximizing Your Earning Potential
Occupational therapists can enhance their earning potential by pursuing specialized certifications, gaining experience in high-demand settings, and considering locations that offer competitive salaries. Networking and continuous professional development also play crucial roles in advancing one's career and salary prospects.
Bottom Line
While the salary of occupational therapists varies widely across the United States, understanding regional differences and factors affecting pay can help professionals make informed career decisions. Whether aiming for higher earnings or seeking a balance between lifestyle and income, occupational therapists have several paths to enhance their financial and professional standing.
Related Credentials
CredentialGuide Editorial Team
Data-driven career guidance for vocational professionals.
Ready to Get Started?
Talk to a career counselor who can help you choose the right credential and training program for your goals.
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities.
Are You a Training Provider?
List your programs on CredentialGuide and connect with students actively researching training options in your area.