Occupational Therapy Assistants in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $79,420 | $68,340 | +16.2% vs US |
| State Rank | #1 of 51 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 3,290 jobs | 47,910 jobs | 6.9% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $57,820 | $27.80 |
| 25th Percentile | $72,400 | $34.81 |
| Median | $79,420 | $38.18 |
| 75th Percentile | $94,130 | $45.25 |
| 90th Percentile | $100,860 | $48.49 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Occupational Therapy Assistants in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $79,420 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +15.2%, occupational therapy assistants are still in strong and growing demand.
How can occupational therapy assistants increase their salary in California?
Occupational Therapy Assistants in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #1 out of 51 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Occupational Therapy Assistants in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Home Health Care Services | $76,800 |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | $75,860 |
| Employment Services | $75,500 |
How are Occupational Therapy Assistants paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants in California is $79,420, which is 16.2% above the national median of $68,340.