Average Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary in Columbia, SC
The average salary for a Occupational Therapy Assistants in Columbia, SC is $73,910. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $73,910 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 25.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $86,220.
- Outlook: The current demand for Occupational Therapy Assistantss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 100 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Columbia, SC economy.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapy Assistants in Columbia, SC earns+6.6%above the national average.
$35.5
$1,421
$6,159
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Occupational Therapy Assistants salaries in Columbia, SC have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 25.4%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
The earning potential for Occupational Therapy Assistantss in Columbia, SC 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 $59,110, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $86,220.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $59,110 | $28.4 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $55,433 | $26.7 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $73,550 | $35.4 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $92,388 | $44.4 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $86,220 | $41.5 |
Detailed Occupational Therapy Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$73,910
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$73,910
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Columbia, SC, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $73,910 to $73,910.
Job Market Context
100
Total Jobs
0.258
Per 1K Jobs
0.83
Location Quotient
Columbia, SC has 0.83x the national average concentration of Occupational Therapy Assistants jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
100 people work as Occupational Therapy Assistants in Columbia, SC.
Only 0.258 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Occupational Therapy Assistants roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $68,420↓ 7% | 13 mi |
| Florence, SC Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $69,790↓ 6% | 64 mi |
Comparing salaries near Columbia, SC
Hiring Occupational Therapy Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistants make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapy Assistants in Columbia, SC is $73,910. This typically ranges from $59,110 for entry-level positions to $86,220 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 6.6% higher than the national median of $69,310.
Is Columbia, SC a good place for Occupational Therapy Assistantss?
Yes, Columbia, SC is financially attractive for Occupational Therapy Assistantss. The average salary of $73,910 exceeds the national average. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Columbia, SC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Columbia, SC?
Some top paying nearby cities include Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area ($68,420) and Florence, SC.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 100 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 0.258 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 Therapy Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbia, SC