Average Occupational Therapists Salary in Ames, IA
The average salary for Occupational Therapistss in Ames, IA is $87,890. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Ames, IA may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $87,890 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $114,440.
- Outlook: The current demand for Occupational Therapistss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 30 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Ames, IA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapists in Ames, IA earns-11.4%below the national average.
$42.3
$1,690
$7,324
Occupational Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 1 years, Occupational Therapists salaries in Ames, IA have remained stable with a modest increase of 0.7%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Occupational Therapists Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
The earning potential for Occupational Therapistss in Ames, IA varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $69,560, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $114,440.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $69,560 | $33.4 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $65,918 | $31.7 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $81,590 | $39.2 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $109,863 | $52.8 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $114,440 | $55 |
Detailed Occupational Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$87,890
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$87,890
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Ames, IA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $87,890 to $87,890.
Job Market Context
30
Total Jobs
0.55
Per 1K Jobs
0.56
Location Quotient
Ames, IA has 0.56x the national average concentration of Occupational Therapists jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
30 people work as Occupational Therapists in Ames, IA.
Only 0.55 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Occupational Therapists roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Occupational Therapists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Occupational Therapists Salary | $92,400↑ 5% | 21 mi |
| Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Occupational Therapists Salary | $90,790↑ 3% | 21 mi |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Occupational Therapists Salary | $90,390↑ 3% | 21 mi |
| Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Occupational Therapists Salary | $93,820↑ 7% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Occupational Therapists Salary | $94,860↑ 8% | 31 mi |
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapists make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapists in Ames, IA is $87,890. This typically ranges from $69,560 for entry-level positions to $114,440 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 11.4% lower than the national median of $99,240.
Is Ames, IA a good place for Occupational Therapistss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Occupational Therapists salary in Ames, IA is $87,890 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Ames, IA. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Occupational Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in Ames, IA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Ames, IA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area ($92,400) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 30 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 0.55 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Occupational Therapists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA