Average Occupational Therapists Salary in Boulder, CO
Occupational Therapists in Boulder, Colorado earn an impressive average annual salary of $118,720, significantly surpassing the national average of $99,240. This elevated compensation is likely driven by Boulder's unique economic landscape, which may include a higher demand for specialized healthcare services and a strong local economy that supports competitive wages.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $118,720 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 22.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $168,500.
- Outlook: The occupational therapy job market in Boulder, CO, appears robust, supported by a local workforce of 230 professionals. The Location Quotient of 1.21 indicates a concentration of these roles that is 21% higher than the national average, suggesting a healthy and potentially growing demand for occupational therapists within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapists in Boulder, CO earns+19.6%above the national average.
$57.1
$2,283
$9,893
Occupational Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that occupational therapist salaries in Boulder, CO, have experienced consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends of increasing healthcare demand and wage adjustments. This upward trajectory is likely influenced by factors such as inflation, evolving healthcare needs, and the increasing recognition of occupational therapy's value.
Occupational Therapists Salary Distribution in Boulder, CO
Career progression for Occupational Therapists in Boulder, CO, typically correlates with a significant salary increase. Entry-level practitioners may start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries in the higher percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies a clear path for career advancement and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $82,900 | $39.9 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $89,040 | $42.8 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $108,410 | $52.1 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $148,400 | $71.3 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $168,500 | $81 |
Detailed Occupational Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$118,720
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$118,720
Adjusted for COL (100)
For Occupational Therapists considering a move to Boulder, CO, the average annual salary of $118,720 is particularly attractive. With a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is precisely the national average, this nominal salary translates directly into strong purchasing power. This means that your earnings in Boulder will likely afford you a lifestyle comparable to, or even better than, what you could achieve with the national average salary elsewhere.
Job Market Context
230
Total Jobs
1.198
Per 1K Jobs
1.21
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.21, Boulder, CO has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Occupational Therapists roles compared to the national norm.
Boulder, CO, presents a favorable market for Occupational Therapists, as evidenced by its Location Quotient of 1.21. This figure indicates that the concentration of occupational therapy jobs in Boulder is higher than the national average, suggesting a strong demand relative to the general workforce. While not an overwhelmingly saturated market, the slightly elevated quotient points to a competitive yet accessible environment for professionals in this field.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Occupational Therapists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO Occupational Therapists Salary | $106,600↓ 10% | 27 mi |
| Greeley, CO Occupational Therapists Salary | $116,510↓ 2% | 37 mi |
| Fort Collins-Loveland, CO Occupational Therapists Salary | $101,870↓ 14% | 37 mi |
| Northwest Colorado nonmetropolitan area Occupational Therapists Salary | $103,690↓ 13% | 67 mi |
| Southwest Colorado nonmetropolitan area Occupational Therapists Salary | $104,730↓ 12% | 67 mi |
Comparing salaries near Boulder, CO
Hiring Occupational Therapistss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapists make in Boulder, CO?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapists in Boulder, CO is $118,720. This typically ranges from $82,900 for entry-level positions to $168,500 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Boulder, CO is 19.6% higher than the national median of $99,240.
Is Boulder, CO a lucrative place for Occupational Therapists?
Yes, Boulder, CO is a lucrative place for Occupational Therapists.The average salary of $118,720 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is at the national average, allowing for excellent purchasing power.
Is Boulder, CO a good place to live for Occupational Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in Boulder, CO is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Boulder, CO?
Some top paying nearby cities include Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO ($106,600) and Greeley, CO.
How does the number of local occupational therapists compare nationally?
With 1.198 jobs per 1,000 workers, Boulder has a slightly higher concentration of occupational therapists than the national average, indicating a robust local demand.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient for OTs in Boulder?
A Location Quotient of 1.21 means that Boulder has 21% more occupational therapists per worker than the national average, suggesting a strong presence and demand for the profession.
How does the cost of living in Boulder affect an OT's salary?
Boulder's cost of living index is 100, matching the national average. This means the higher average salary of $118,720 offers significant real value and purchasing power for OTs.
Is the job market for Occupational Therapists growing in Boulder?
While specific growth rates aren't detailed, the higher-than-average Location Quotient suggests a healthy and potentially expanding market for occupational therapists in Boulder.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 230 employees in the Boulder, CO area with a job density of 1.198 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
Explore Occupational Therapists Salaries by State
Top Jobs in Boulder, CO
- All Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Sales and Related Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Business and Financial Operations Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Office and Administrative Support Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Management Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Educational Instruction and Library Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Production Occupations Salary in Boulder, CO
- Browse All Jobs in Boulder, CO →
Semantic Salary Analysis for Occupational Therapists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Boulder, CO