Average Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary in Massachusetts
Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) in Massachusetts earn an average annual salary of $67,930, slightly below the national average of $69,310. This marginal difference is often influenced by the state's robust healthcare sector and the specific demand dynamics within its metropolitan and rural areas. The concentration of healthcare facilities and the specialized needs of the patient population contribute to the overall compensation structure for these vital professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $67,930 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 4.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $84,560.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,540 Occupational Therapy Assistants, Massachusetts demonstrates a significant presence in this field. The Location Quotient of 1.36 indicates a higher concentration of OTAs in the state compared to the national average, suggesting a robust demand and a well-established professional community. This concentration points to a healthy job market for those entering or advancing within the OTA profession in Massachusetts.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapy Assistants in Massachusetts earns-2.0%below the national average.
$32.7
$1,306
$5,661
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Massachusetts have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends in the healthcare sector. Factors such as increasing demand for rehabilitative services, an aging population, and advancements in therapeutic techniques likely contribute to upward pressure on wages, reflecting a positive trajectory for OTA compensation in the state.
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Distribution in Massachusetts
The career path for an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Massachusetts offers clear opportunities for salary progression. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command significantly higher salaries, often reaching the upper percentiles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior salaries signifies substantial career growth and increased earning potential as OTAs develop their expertise and take on more complex responsibilities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $45,100 | $21.7 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $50,948 | $24.5 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $72,750 | $35 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $84,913 | $40.8 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $84,560 | $40.7 |
Detailed Occupational Therapy Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$67,930
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$45,775
Adjusted for COL (148.4)
While the average OTA salary in Massachusetts is $67,930, the state's Cost of Living Index stands at 148.4, considerably higher than the national average of 100. This means that the nominal salary, while respectable, may not stretch as far in terms of purchasing power compared to lower-cost states. Prospective and current residents should carefully consider this disparity when evaluating their financial well-being and career decisions in Massachusetts.
Job Market Context
1,540
Total Jobs
0.422
Per 1K Jobs
1.36
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.36, Massachusetts has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Occupational Therapy Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.36 for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Massachusetts signifies a notable concentration of these professionals relative to the national average. This suggests that the job market is not only active but also potentially more competitive, with a higher density of qualified individuals. Employers may find a readily available talent pool, while job seekers can benefit from a market that values their specialized skills, though competition for desirable roles may be elevated.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Worcester, MA Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $68,140↑ 0% | 14 mi |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $69,020↑ 2% | 24 mi |
| Providence-Warwick, RI-MA Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $65,040↓ 4% | 29 mi |
| Springfield, MA Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $64,100↓ 6% | 52 mi |
Comparing salaries near Massachusetts
Hiring Occupational Therapy Assistantss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistants make in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapy Assistants in Massachusetts is $67,930. This typically ranges from $45,100 for entry-level positions to $84,560 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Massachusetts is 2.0% lower than the national median of $69,310.
Is Massachusetts a lucrative place for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
Yes, with caveats.Massachusetts offers a strong job market concentration for OTAs, with an average salary of $67,930. However, the high cost of living requires careful financial planning.
Is Massachusetts a good place to live for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Massachusetts is 148.4. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Massachusetts?
Some top paying nearby cities include Worcester, MA ($68,140) and Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH.
How does the OTA salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Massachusetts is $67,930, which is slightly lower than the national average of $69,310.
What is the concentration of OTAs in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has a Location Quotient of 1.36 for OTAs, indicating a concentration that is 36% higher than the national average, suggesting a strong presence of the profession in the state.
How does the cost of living affect OTA salaries in Massachusetts?
With a Cost of Living Index of 148.4, Massachusetts is significantly more expensive than the national average. This means the $67,930 salary may have less purchasing power than in lower-cost states.
What does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers indicate for OTAs in Massachusetts?
The figure of 0.422 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a steady presence and demand for Occupational Therapy Assistants within the state's overall employment landscape.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,540 employees in the Massachusetts area with a job density of 0.422 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 Massachusetts