Average Occupational Therapists Salary in Merced, CA
Yes, Merced, CA is a highly lucrative market for Occupational Therapistss. With an average annual salary of $113,270, professionals here earn significantly more than the national norm.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $113,270 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 29.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $136,040.
- 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 Merced, CA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapists in Merced, CA earns+14.1%above the national average.
$54.5
$2,178
$9,439
Occupational Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 3 years, Occupational Therapists salaries in Merced, CA have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 29.9%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Occupational Therapists Salary Distribution in Merced, CA
The earning potential for Occupational Therapistss in Merced, CA 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 $80,760, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $136,040.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $80,760 | $38.8 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $84,953 | $40.8 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $109,040 | $52.4 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $141,588 | $68.1 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $136,040 | $65.4 |
Detailed Occupational Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$113,270
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$113,270
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Merced, CA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $113,270 to $113,270.
Job Market Context
30
Total Jobs
0.399
Per 1K Jobs
0.4
Location Quotient
At 0.40x, Merced, CA has a notably lower concentration of Occupational Therapists jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.
30 people work as Occupational Therapists in Merced, CA.
Only 0.399 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. |
|---|---|---|
| Modesto, CA Occupational Therapists Salary | $117,460↑ 4% | 37 mi |
| Fresno, CA Occupational Therapists Salary | $109,820↓ 3% | 52 mi |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA Occupational Therapists Salary | $116,560↑ 3% | 65 mi |
| Salinas, CA Occupational Therapists Salary | $112,900↓ 0% | 77 mi |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA Occupational Therapists Salary | $137,950↑ 22% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Merced, CA
Hiring Occupational Therapistss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapists make in Merced, CA?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapists in Merced, CA is $113,270. This typically ranges from $80,760 for entry-level positions to $136,040 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Merced, CA is 14.1% higher than the national median of $99,240.
Is Merced, CA a good place for Occupational Therapistss?
Yes, Merced, CA is financially attractive for Occupational Therapistss. The average salary of $113,270 exceeds the national average. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Merced, CA a good place to live for Occupational Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in Merced, CA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Merced, CA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Modesto, CA ($117,460) and Fresno, CA.
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 Merced, CA area with a job density of 0.399 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 Merced, CA