Average Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary in Pennsylvania
Occupational Therapy Assistants in Pennsylvania earn an average annual salary of $62,290. This figure is notably below the national average of $69,310, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as demand and supply, may be influencing compensation within the state. Factors specific to Pennsylvania's healthcare sector and economic landscape likely contribute to this pay differential.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $62,290 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 5.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $76,200.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 2,010 Occupational Therapy Assistants, Pennsylvania demonstrates a solid presence in this field. The Location Quotient of 1.08 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average, suggesting a stable and potentially growing demand for their services within the state's healthcare system.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapy Assistants in Pennsylvania earns-10.1%below the national average.
$30
$1,198
$5,191
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 Pennsylvania have experienced growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by increasing demand for rehabilitative services, advancements in healthcare, and a general rise in the cost of living, all of which contribute to upward pressure on wages.
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Distribution in Pennsylvania
Salary progression for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Pennsylvania typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries in the higher percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies clear career progression opportunities and increased earning potential as expertise develops.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $48,630 | $23.4 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $46,718 | $22.5 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $61,430 | $29.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $77,863 | $37.4 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $76,200 | $36.6 |
Detailed Occupational Therapy Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$62,290
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$62,919
Adjusted for COL (99)
The average annual salary of $62,290 for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Pennsylvania aligns closely with the state's Cost of Living Index of 99, which is at the national average. This suggests that the nominal salary offers a purchasing power that is relatively consistent with the national standard, making relocation financially neutral from a cost-of-living perspective.
Job Market Context
2,010
Total Jobs
0.334
Per 1K Jobs
1.08
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.08, Pennsylvania has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Occupational Therapy Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
Pennsylvania's Location Quotient of 1.08 for Occupational Therapy Assistants signifies a job market with a concentration slightly above the national average. This indicates a healthy demand and a potentially competitive environment where employers are actively seeking these professionals, suggesting good opportunities for those entering or established in the field.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Williamsport, PA Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $66,830↑ 7% | 9 mi |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $65,300↑ 5% | 66 mi |
Comparing salaries near Pennsylvania
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistants make in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapy Assistants in Pennsylvania is $62,290. This typically ranges from $48,630 for entry-level positions to $76,200 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Pennsylvania is 10.1% lower than the national median of $69,310.
Is Pennsylvania a lucrative place for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
No, but it offers stability.While the average salary of $62,290 is below the national average, the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning purchasing power is comparable. The slightly higher concentration of jobs (LQ 1.08) suggests a stable market.
Is Pennsylvania a good place to live for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
With a Cost of Living Index of 99 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Pennsylvania?
Some top paying nearby cities include Williamsport, PA ($66,830) and Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA.
How does Pennsylvania's OTA salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Pennsylvania is $62,290, which is lower than the national average of $69,310.
What is the concentration of Occupational Therapy Assistants in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has a Location Quotient of 1.08 for Occupational Therapy Assistants, indicating a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average.
How does the cost of living in Pennsylvania affect OTA salaries?
With a Cost of Living Index of 99, Pennsylvania's cost of living is at the national average. This means the $62,290 salary offers purchasing power similar to the national average, despite being lower nominally.
What does the job market look like for OTAs in Pennsylvania?
The job market appears stable with a workforce of 2,010 and a slightly above-average concentration (LQ 1.08), suggesting consistent demand for Occupational Therapy Assistants in the state.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 2,010 employees in the Pennsylvania area with a job density of 0.334 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 Pennsylvania