Average Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary in Missouri
Occupational Therapy Assistants in Missouri earn an average annual salary of $62,990, which is below the national average of $69,310. This difference in compensation can be attributed to various regional economic factors, including the overall demand for healthcare services and the state's specific economic landscape.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $62,990 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 10.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $77,620.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,030 Occupational Therapy Assistants, Missouri demonstrates a stable presence in this vital healthcare sector. The location quotient of 1.13 suggests a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average, indicating a healthy and potentially growing demand for their services within the state.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapy Assistants in Missouri earns-9.1%below the national average.
$30.3
$1,211
$5,249
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Missouri have seen a steady upward trend over the past four years, mirroring national patterns of wage growth in allied health professions. This growth is typically driven by increasing healthcare needs and a greater emphasis on rehabilitative services.
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Distribution in Missouri
Career progression for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Missouri typically involves salary increases tied to experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with several years of experience can command salaries in the higher percentiles, reflecting their accumulated skills and expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $46,500 | $22.4 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $47,243 | $22.7 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $62,830 | $30.2 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $78,738 | $37.9 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $77,620 | $37.3 |
Detailed Occupational Therapy Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$62,990
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$71,256
Adjusted for COL (88.4)
The average annual salary of $62,990 in Missouri presents a favorable financial picture when considering the state's cost of living index of 88.4, which is below the national average of 100. This means that the purchasing power of an OTA's salary in Missouri is likely higher than the nominal figure suggests, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle.
Job Market Context
1,030
Total Jobs
0.352
Per 1K Jobs
1.13
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.13, Missouri has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Occupational Therapy Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
Missouri's location quotient of 1.13 for Occupational Therapy Assistants indicates a job market that is slightly more concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while the demand is present and perhaps even slightly elevated, the market may be moderately competitive, offering good opportunities for qualified individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia, MO Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $62,310↓ 1% | 34 mi |
Comparing salaries near Missouri
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistants make in Missouri?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapy Assistants in Missouri is $62,990. This typically ranges from $46,500 for entry-level positions to $77,620 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Missouri is 9.1% lower than the national median of $69,310.
Is Missouri a lucrative place for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
Yes, with a caveat.While the average salary is below the national average, Missouri's lower cost of living enhances the purchasing power of the $62,990 salary, making it relatively lucrative.
Is Missouri a good place to live for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
With a Cost of Living Index of 88.4 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Missouri?
Some top paying nearby cities include Columbia, MO ($62,310) and others.
How does Missouri's OTA salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Missouri is $62,990, which is approximately $6,320 less than the national average of $69,310.
What is the concentration of OTAs in Missouri?
Missouri has a location quotient of 1.13 for Occupational Therapy Assistants, meaning the concentration of these professionals is slightly higher than the national average.
How does the cost of living in Missouri affect OTA salaries?
With a cost of living index of 88.4 (compared to the national average of 100), the $62,990 salary in Missouri offers better purchasing power than it might in a higher cost-of-living state.
What is the total number of OTAs employed in Missouri?
There are approximately 1,030 Occupational Therapy Assistants employed in Missouri.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,030 employees in the Missouri area with a job density of 0.352 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 Missouri