Average Occupational Therapists Salary in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
Occupational Therapists in the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV metropolitan area command an impressive average annual salary of $109,030. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $99,240, indicating a premium placed on these essential healthcare professionals within this specific region. The elevated compensation is likely influenced by the area's robust economic landscape and demand for specialized medical services.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $109,030 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 13.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $139,650.
- Outlook: The Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV area supports a local workforce of 2,250 Occupational Therapists. While the Location Quotient of 0.73 suggests a slightly lower concentration compared to the national average, the presence of a substantial workforce indicates a consistent demand for these professionals. The rate of 0.72 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores the steady employment opportunities available in this market.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapists in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV earns+9.9%above the national average.
$52.4
$2,097
$9,086
Occupational Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this region's Occupational Therapist salaries over the past four years is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend mirroring national patterns. Economic factors, increased demand for rehabilitative services, and inflation typically contribute to salary growth for healthcare professionals, suggesting that Occupational Therapists in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria have likely seen their earning potential increase over time.
Occupational Therapists Salary Distribution in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
Salary progression for Occupational Therapists in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV typically correlates with experience. Entry-level positions will naturally fall at the lower end of the salary spectrum, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command significantly higher earnings, potentially reaching into the top percentiles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior salaries reflects the career advancement and increased value brought by experienced practitioners.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $77,460 | $37.2 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $81,773 | $39.3 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $105,010 | $50.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $136,288 | $65.5 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $139,650 | $67.1 |
Detailed Occupational Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$109,030
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$109,030
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $109,030 for Occupational Therapists in the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV area aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is higher than the national average, the purchasing power of that salary is effectively equivalent to the national average. This presents a balanced scenario where higher earnings are offset by comparable living expenses.
Job Market Context
2,250
Total Jobs
0.72
Per 1K Jobs
0.73
Location Quotient
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV has 0.73x 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.
With a Location Quotient of 0.73, the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV metropolitan area has a slightly lower concentration of Occupational Therapists relative to the national average. This suggests that while the market is not oversaturated, there is a stable and consistent demand for these professionals. Employers may find a moderately competitive landscape for talent, but the overall job market appears robust enough to support the existing workforce.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Occupational Therapists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland nonmetropolitan area Occupational Therapists Salary | $97,040↓ 11% | 17 mi |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD Occupational Therapists Salary | $97,320↓ 11% | 35 mi |
| Lexington Park, MD Occupational Therapists Salary | $106,150↓ 3% | 55 mi |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV Occupational Therapists Salary | $92,430↓ 15% | 63 mi |
| Winchester, VA-WV Occupational Therapists Salary | $85,650↓ 21% | 64 mi |
Comparing salaries near Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
Hiring Occupational Therapistss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapists make in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapists in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV is $109,030. This typically ranges from $77,460 for entry-level positions to $139,650 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV is 9.9% higher than the national median of $99,240.
Is Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV a lucrative place for Occupational Therapists?
Yes, it offers a lucrative environment for Occupational Therapists.The average salary of $109,030 significantly exceeds the national average, and the Cost of Living Index is at the national average, indicating strong earning potential relative to expenses.
Is Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV a good place to live for Occupational Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV?
Some top paying nearby cities include Maryland nonmetropolitan area ($97,040) and Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD.
How does the local OT salary compare to the national average?
Occupational Therapists in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV earn an average of $109,030 annually, which is $9,790 more than the national average of $99,240.
What is the concentration of Occupational Therapists in this area?
The Location Quotient for Occupational Therapists in this region is 0.73, meaning there are fewer OTs per worker here compared to the national average.
How does the Cost of Living affect the OT salary in this area?
The Cost of Living Index is 100, which is the national average. This means the higher salary of $109,030 offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average.
How many Occupational Therapists work in the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV area?
There are approximately 2,250 Occupational Therapists employed within the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV metropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 2,250 employees in the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV area with a job density of 0.72 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 Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV