25 Highest Paying Cities for Occupational Therapy

U.S. Cities That Offer Occupational Therapy Assistants the Highest Salaries Based on Cost of Living

As an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), you’ll help patients recover or improve their daily living and working skills. OTAs are directly involved in providing therapy to patients under the direction of Occupational Therapists.

Occupational Therapy is an especially great career choice for anyone looking for job security as the BLS expects employment to grow nationally by 25 percent over the next ten years. About 9,300 job openings for OTAs are projected each year for the next decade. Demand is likely as treatments are needed for older adults suffering from arthritis, strokes, and injuries.

In this article, we’ve used data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to compile a list of the 25 highest-paying cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants. You can also read about other best entry-level medical jobs.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Therapy Assistants earn an average salary* of $61,730. The average wage for an OTA can vary depending on the industry in which they decide to practice and the type of facility they work in, such as hospitals, nursing care facilities, or doctor’s offices. The highest 10 percent earn more than $80,210.

Top Paying States for Occupational Therapy Assistants

Occupational Therapy Assistant pay can also vary by geography. Below are the top five states where OTAs get paid the most:

Nevada
- Average Hourly Wage: $37.55
- Average Annual Salary: $78,100
California:
- Average Hourly Wage: $36.10
- Average Annual Salary: $75,080
Hawaii:
- Average Hourly Wage: $35.25
- Average Annual Salary: $73,330
New Jersey:
- Average Hourly Wage: $35.03
- Average Annual Salary: $72,860
Delaware:
- Average Hourly Wage: $34.58
- Average Annual Salary: $71,930

The Highest Paying Cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants

Information on Occupational Therapy Assistant salaries is available for many cities across the country. But those salary* numbers alone don’t always convey the actual value of the average earnings in each city.

For this article, we’ll look at the salary* and how far that salary* goes in each city based on the city’s cost of living. For example, the cost of renting an apartment in San Francisco differs from renting an apartment in Little Rock. And plenty of other living expenses can drastically vary from one place to the next.

Below, we’ve ranked the best-paying cities for OTAs according to the average salary* and how much buying power that salary* delivers offers you in each city.

Our Methodology

We pulled the cost-of-living index values for each city in our study from Expatistan.

The average cost of living index (COLI) for all the U.S. cities we compared was about 150. So, if a city like Memphis, Tennessee, had a COLI of 123, it was 24% less expensive to live there than the average city in our list.

Based on the COLI for each city, we adjusted their annual salary* to account for the difference in the cost of living. In the example above, the average salary* of $64,150 in Memphis increased to $79,491, making it one of the highest-paying cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants.

Read on for the 25 best-paying cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants in based on our methodology and cost-of-living index.

1. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico, with an estimated population of about 560,000. It is the commercial, industrial, and transportation center for New Mexico’s timber, livestock, and farming areas. But science and medicine also play a large part in the economy.

Albuquerque is the major hub for healthcare in New Mexico, with medical centers that include the University of New Mexico Hospital, Presbyterian Hospital, Raymond G. Murphy Medical Center, and Lovelace Medical Center. This helps make the city an excellent work destination for Occupational Therapy Assistants.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Albuquerque, NM?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Albuquerque make an average salary of $75,180, or about $36.14 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $102,160.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 131
The cost of living in Albuquerque is 19% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Albuquerque increases to $89,439.

2. Modesto, California

Modesto (the Spanish word for “modest”) sits in Central Valley between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park. “Star Wars” creator George Lucas was born here, as well as the music genre “rockabilly,” and the city celebrates its international contributions to architecture once a year. The city of more than 200,000 has retained its old-world charm, with tree-lined streets and farm stands with fresh produce.

Agriculture and wine are top industries, with top employers including local wineries. Memorial Medical Center and Doctors Medical Center are two of the top five employers of Modesto, together employing about 5,600 healthcare workers.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Modesto, CA?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Modesto make an average salary of $72,050, or about $34.64 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $97,070.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 133
The cost of living in Modesto is 18% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Modesto increases to $84,824.

3. Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke advertises itself as a city with downtown living that’s full of energy, live music, summer festivals, and holiday celebrations. It’s known for its great culture, arts, and music—with a low cost of living for renting and buying.

The economy is strong in manufacturing and education. The top employer is Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Other top 10 employers include United Parcel Service (with a significant facility at the Roanoke Regional Airport), Walmart, and Anthem (member of Blue Cross Blue Shield). It’s definitely a city worth considering for your OTA career.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Roanoke, VA?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Roanoke make an average salary of $62,240, or about $29.92 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $77,880.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 105
The cost of living in Roanoke is 35% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Roanoke increases to $84,055.

4. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, the seventh-largest city in the nation, is known for exciting attractions like the historic Alamo, scenic San Antonia River Walk, or El Mercado, an authentic Mexican marketplace. The economy is based on healthcare, government work, the oil and gas industry, and tourism.

Several large companies have headquarters in the city, including Valero Energy, USAA, Carenet Health, and NuStar Energy. It’s also home to one of the country’s largest concentrations of military bases. The South Texas Medical Center, about 10 miles northwest of downtown, includes a group of hospitals, clinics, and research centers.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in San Antonio, TX?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in San Antonio make an average salary of $69,000, or about $33.18 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $88,070.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 132
The cost of living in San Antonio is 18% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in San Antonio increases to $81,660.

5. Raleigh, North Carolina

This city, home to North Carolina State University, has plenty of history to discover. But you’ll also want to explore its many festivals, music, and dining experiences. Known for its Southern BBQ, Zagat calls Raleigh one of America’s hottest food cities.

Raleigh is home to one of the country’s most prominent research parks, including high-tech and biotech research. The city is the grocery industry’s central retail shipping and distribution point. Many healthcare companies are based here, including PRA Health Sciences, Chiesi USA, MAKO Surgical Corp, and the American Board of Anesthesiology.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Raleigh, NC?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Raleigh make an average salary of $73,520, or about $35.35 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $102,740.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 145
The cost of living in Raleigh is 10% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Raleigh increases to $81,097.

6. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is the second biggest city in Tennessee, located on the Mississippi river. The city is known to be the birthplace of some of America’s most significant music genres, such as soul and blues. Memphis is one of the most historical and cultural cities in the southern United States.

Two of the nation’s largest private hospitals operate in Memphis, including the Methodist and Baptist Memorial health systems—making it an excellent city for OTAs. Hospitals include the Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital and Baptist Memorial Hospital.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Memphis, TN?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Memphis make an average salary of $64,150, or about $30.84 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $80,130.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 123
The cost of living in Memphis is 24% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Memphis increases to $79,491.

7. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa, called T-Town by locals, is known for inspiring its genre of music, the Tulsa Sound. You can enjoy music and the arts, including Tulsa Opera, Tulsa Ballet, and endless shows at BOK Center or the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. You can also enjoy posing for photos in front of various city murals.

Employing more than 7,000, the Saint Francis Health System runs several hospitals in the area. It operates St. John Medical Center, named one of the most advanced heart hospitals in the nation. More than 700 doctors work in this specialty hospital. It also makes our list of high-paying cities for OTAs.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Tulsa, OK?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Tulsa make an average salary of $64,590, or about $31.05 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $81,120.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 129
The cost of living in Tulsa is 20% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Tulsa increases to $77,639.

8. Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky, with an estimated population of 602,000 residents. The city is home to the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and dozens of companies and organizations across various industries. However, the base of the city’s economy since its establishment has been the shipping and cargo industries.

U.S. News rates the top three hospitals in the Louisville area as Baptist Health Louisville, Norton Hospitals, and UofL Health-Jewish Hospital. With its many hospitals and medical centers, Louisville could be a great place for Occupational Therapy Assistants.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Louisville, KY?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Louisville make an average salary of $64,590, or about $31.05 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $80,440.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 133
The cost of living in Louisville is 18% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Louisville increases to $76,041.

9. Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth is the fifth largest city in Texas, populated by nearly 1 million residents. This “City of Cowboys and Culture” is home to the world’s first indoor rodeo. But Fort Worth also offers world-class museums, an active arts scene, and many festivals to supplement its homage to the American Cowboy.

Prominent companies headquartered in Fort Worth include American Airlines, the John Peter Smith Hospital, Pier 1 Imports, and RadioShack. U.S. News rates some of the top hospitals in Fort Worth as Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Southwest, Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth, and Baylor Scott and White All Saints Medical Center-Fort Worth.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Fort Worth, TX?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Fort Worth make an average salary of $74,590, or about $35.86 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $92,780.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 159
The cost of living in Fort Worth is 2% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Fort Worth increases to $75,818.

10. Riverside, California

Riverside is a metropolis within the Greater Los Angeles area, which means residents have nearby access to the world-famous attractions of LA, Hollywood, and the iconic California coastline. Within Riverside is an economy built by industry and manufacturing, a frequent location for Hollywood film shoots, and a wide variety of museums and festivals.

Top employers include government, education, manufacturing, and health. However, Riverside Community Hospital and Parkview Community Hospital both rank in the top 10 for employers, together employing about 3,000 medical workers.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Riverside, CA?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Riverside make an average salary of $67,140, or about $32.28 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $91,690.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 142
The cost of living in Riverside is 12% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Riverside increases to $75,306.

11. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is best known for its fabled Blue Ridge Mountains and the incredible Biltmore Estate—the largest privately-owned residence in the nation. Pack Square Park, the western North Carolina Nature Center, and even a real-life ghost tour are other top attractions. But who knew this town of about 95,000 was also a great place for Occupational Therapy Assistants?

Here are a few reasons why. Mission Health System is the city’s largest employer, with over 3,000 employees. Mission Hospital is their flagship hospital. The Asheville VA Medical Center also employs more than 1,000. In addition, Asheville Specialty Hospital is the long-term acute care hospital in the region.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Asheville, NC?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Asheville make an average salary of $64,890, or about $31.20 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $80,130.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 137
The cost of living in Asheville is 15% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Asheville increases to $74,789.

12. Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska and is the anchor of the eight-county, bi-state Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area. According to USA Today, Omaha ranks #8 among the nation’s cities in both per-capita Fortune 500 companies and per-capita billionaires. The low cost of living also makes it an attractive place to live and work.

With a population of around 468,000 people, CHI Health is the #2 employer in the city, employing over 7,500 people. Hospitals include the Boys Town National Research Hospital (known for hearing-related research), the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and the Creighton University Medical Center.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Omaha, NE?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Omaha make an average salary of $61,540, or about $29.59 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $79,970.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 128
The cost of living in Omaha is 21% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Omaha increases to $74,354.

13. Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola promotes its relaxing sugar sand beaches as a top reason to visit. Other top attractions include the Historic Pensacola Village, National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola Lighthouse, and Big Lagoon State Park. It’s also home to several annual festivals, events, and tours, as tourism is big business.

But it’s also a city you can live and work. Baptist Health Care employs more than 6,600, and Sacred Heart Health Systems employs another 4,800. West Florida Healthcare adds another 1,200, helping to support why Pensacola may have made our list of highest-paying cities for OTAs.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Pensacola, FL?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Pensacola make an average salary of $64,760, or about $31.13 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $80,850.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 141
The cost of living in Pensacola is 13% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Pensacola increases to $73,037.

14. Amarillo, Texas

Ever heard of Cadillac Ranch, where 10 Cadillacs are buried nose-down at the same angles as ancient pyramids? You’ll find it in Amarillo, Texas. Other popular stops include Palo Duro Canyon and Big Texan Steak Ranch and Brewery. And did you know Amarillo is the largest city on the famous Route 66 between Oklahoma and New Mexico?

But what brings OTAs to Amarillo are the modern medical facilities like Baptist St. Anthony’s, Northwest Texas Hospitals, the Don & Sybil Harrington Cancer Center, and Bivins Memorial Nursing Home.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Amarillo, TX?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Amarillo make an average salary of $62,210, or about $29.91 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $77,870.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 135
The cost of living in Amarillo is 16% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Amarillo increases to $72,470.

15. Long Beach, California

In Southern California’s Long Beach, you can experience the Aquarium of the Pacific, thrilling whale watching, farmer’s markets, eclectic shopping, and coastal breweries. With a population of about 500,000, Long Beach attracts many new residents who fall in love with its waterfront attractions.

Many of the top 10 employers include government and educational institutions, but among the top employers are Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, with over 5,000 workers, and VA Long Beach Healthcare System, employing over 3,000. And St. Mary’s Medical Center, with more than 1,500 workers. With this sizeable medical workforce, Long Beach is a place OTAs can call a great place to live and work.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Long Beach, CA?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Long Beach make an average salary of $73,440, or about $35.31 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $81,080.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 165
The cost of living in Long Beach is 2% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its ranking, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Long Beach decreases to $71,923.

16. Newark, New Jersey

New Jersey’s largest city, Newark, is a primary air, rail, and shipping hub. Many of its jobs are in the insurance, finance, import-export, and healthcare sectors. Major employers include Prudential Financial, Mutual Benefit Life, and American Insurance Company. Nearly 50,000 students attend universities or medical schools in the city.

University Hospital, one of five city hospitals, is a teaching hospital associated with Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences. Others include Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Saint Michael’s Medical Center. With plenty of opportunity, Newark made our list of highest-paying cities for OTAs.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Newark, NJ?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Newark make an average salary of $72,790, or about $34.99 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $80,530.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 164
The cost of living in Newark is 1% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its ranking, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Newark decreases to $71,737.

17. Houston, Texas

Big city life in Texas is found in Houston, the fourth largest city in the U.S. With a population of over 2 million, Houston is known as a global city with strengths in culture, medicine, and research. The energy industry leads the economic growth, supported by companies like Phillips 66, Sysco, and ConocoPhillips. Major tech companies here include HP, Crown Castle, and Cybersoft.

The healthcare infrastructure is also extensive. Texas Medical Center is the world’s largest medical center, including 49 member institutions. The MD Anderson Cancer Center is one of the top cancer care hospitals nationwide. Many other hospitals and clinics make Houston a city where you’ll find many high-paying medical jobs.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Houston, TX?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Houston make an average salary of $71,220, or about $34.24 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $92,890.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 161
The cost of living in Houston is at the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its ranking, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Houston stays at about $71,511.

18. Provo, Utah

Provo, a college town and home of Brigham Young University (BYU), has been named first for community optimism (2012), second for the Best Places for Businesses and Careers (2013), and first for health and well-being (2014). The city is also known for being a technology center. Several successful tech startups have originated in Utah’s version of Silicon Valley—called Silicon Slopes.

Among the top 10 employers in Provo are BYU and tech giants Vivint and Qualtrics. Also on the list are two healthcare organizations, Utah Valley Regional Medical center, and Revere Health. Together they employ as many as 6,000. Combined with its low cost of living, Provo easily makes our list as one of the highest-paying cities for OTAs.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Provo, UT?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Provo make an average salary of $57,700, or about $27.74 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $79,440.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 125
The cost of living in Provo is 23% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Provo increases to $70,785.

19. Youngstown, Ohio

Located along the Mahoning River, Youngstown is promoted as a picturesque city of 60,000 residents. You’ll find lovely parks, historic landmarks, and all of the outdoor activities that make living in a small mid-America town memorable.

The economy has been driven by steel, automotive manufacturing, and technology. But even smaller towns rely on good healthcare and medical centers. Youngstown’s top-rated hospitals include Belmont Pines Hospital and Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital and Select Specialty Hospital. If small-town life is more your style, working as an OTA in Youngstown may be for you.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Youngstown, OH?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Youngstown make an average salary of $54,790, or about $26.34 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $72,110.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 116
The cost of living in Youngstown is 28% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Youngstown increases to $70,265.

20. Cincinnati, Ohio

Located on the Ohio River, Cincinnati is renowned for its five-way chili, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, local eateries and breweries, as well as arts, sports, and recreation. Downtown you’ll find Fountain Square and the Smale Riverfront Park, where you can explore great spaces and dine on fantastic food.

Proctor & Gamble, Kroger Company, and General Electric all make their headquarters in Cincinnati. Kroger is the city’s largest employer, providing over 20,000 jobs. Major hospitals in the city include Christ Hospital, Bethesda North Hospital, and the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Cincinnati, OH?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Cincinnati make an average salary of $63,960, or about $30.75 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $79,160.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 146
The cost of living in Cincinnati is 10% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Cincinnati increases to $70,156.

21. Austin, Texas

Ranked as #13 in Best Places to Live by U.S. News, Austin is a rich cultural center where many young people seek new job opportunities, great outdoor living, or higher learning opportunities. It’s the site of the South by Southwest conference, the venue of the PBS concert series Austin City Limits, and many Fortune 500 companies—including 3M, Dell, Amazon, Oracle, and Texas Instruments. It’s also a hub for pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

Austin’s top medical groups include St. David’s Healthcare Partnership and the Seton Family of Hospitals. With strong OTA salaries relatively close to the average cost of living, it’s not surprising that Austin makes our top 25 list.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Austin, TX?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Austin make an average salary of $73,020, or about $35.11 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $85,210.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 169
The cost of living in Austin is 5% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its ranking, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Austin decreases to $69,705.

22. Tucson, Arizona

Boating mild winters and warm shoulder seasons, Tucson is also home to the University of Arizona and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. Some of USA Today’s 10 Best things to see in Tucson include Pima Air and Space Museum, Biosphere 2, Saguaro National Park, Tombstone, and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.

Top employers in Tucson include the University of Arizona, Raytheon Technologies, and the military. Banner University Medical Center is the seventh largest employer, with more than 6,200 workers. For OTAs who want to live in this hot spot—for both climate and job opportunity—Tucson may be right for you.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Tucson, AZ?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Tucson make an average salary of $60,730, or about $29.20 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $76,870.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 139
The cost of living in Tucson is 14% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Tucson increases to $69,243.

23. Baltimore, Maryland

With a population of over half a million, Baltimore is a growing center for arts and culture. Top attractions include the Baltimore Museum of Art, Walters Art Museum, National Aquarium, Maryland Zoo, and Maryland Science Center. Major organizations based here include the NAACP, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, and the Social Security Administration.

Baltimore is the site of Johns Hopkins Hospital (and Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center), Sinai Hospital, and St. Agnes Hospital. With a reasonable cost of living, it’s a top city for OTA salaries.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Baltimore, MD?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Baltimore make an average salary of $67,650, or about $32.53 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $80,530.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 158
The cost of living in Baltimore is 2% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Baltimore increases to $69,182.

24. Sacramento, California

Sacramento, California’s capital city, has an estimated population of over 500,00. The city serves as the state’s political center and a hub for lobbying and think tanks. It’s also the fastest-growing city in California, which is remarkable given the state’s size.

The medical industry thrives in Sacramento. UC Davis Health employs more than 12,000, while Dignity Health/Catholic Healthcare West employs over 7,000.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Sacramento, CA?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Sacramento make an average salary of $76,750, or about $36.90 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $98,120.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 178
The cost of living in Sacramento is 10% more expensive than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its ranking, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Sacramento decreases to $68,993.

25. Providence, Rhode Island

Providence is a quintessential New England coastal town that entails everything you think it would. It’s known for incredible seafood, nautical history, and that invigorating scent of chilly sea breeze. Plus, New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia are easy drives away from Providence.

As for Providence itself, the historic architecture and stonework that fills the city are remarkable. Great schools and nearby professional sports teams draw more people to the area. And the economy? More than one-third is based on trade, transportation, utilities, and educational and health services.

How Much Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Make in Providence, RI?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in Providence make an average salary of $62,470, or about $30.03 per hour.
For Occupational Therapy Assistants in the 90th percentile, salaries can reach as high as $78,990.
Cost of Living Index (COLI): 148
The cost of living in Providence is 8% cheaper than the average of all the cities in our study.
Based on its affordability, the adjusted average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Providence increases to $67,749.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Career

Are you ready to start your career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Earning your diploma or associate’s degree in Occupational Therapy can help you quickly enter this growing healthcare field while also providing you with a satisfying career. Plus, as an OTA, you’ll be in a profession expected to experience 25 percent job growth over the next ten years.

While earning potential is definitely important when choosing where to live, you’ll also want to weigh other essential factors before accepting a new position and moving to a new city. For example, you may want to decide how far away you’re willing to live from your family.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant, you can earn your OTA degree in as little as 96 weeks at Brookline College.

Click here to learn more about the Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Brookline College.