Average Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary in Washington
Occupational Therapy Assistants in Washington earn an impressive average annual salary of $74,720, significantly surpassing the national average of $69,310. This elevated compensation reflects the state's robust economy and potentially higher demand for specialized healthcare roles, influencing local wage structures.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $74,720 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 19.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $86,410.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 660 Occupational Therapy Assistants, Washington presents a moderately sized, yet concentrated, job market. The Location Quotient of 0.6 indicates that while the profession is present, it is less concentrated than the national average, suggesting potential opportunities for skilled professionals seeking to enter or advance within the state's healthcare sector.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapy Assistants in Washington earns+7.8%above the national average.
$35.9
$1,437
$6,227
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 Washington have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends in healthcare compensation. Factors such as increasing demand for rehabilitative services and inflation likely contribute to this upward trajectory.
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Distribution in Washington
Career progression for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Washington typically involves salary increases tied to experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience can command salaries in the higher percentiles, reflecting a significant salary gap that signifies substantial career advancement opportunities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $60,430 | $29.1 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $56,040 | $26.9 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $76,010 | $36.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $93,400 | $44.9 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $86,410 | $41.5 |
Detailed Occupational Therapy Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$74,720
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$64,917
Adjusted for COL (115.1)
The average annual salary of $74,720 in Washington is juxtaposed with a Cost of Living Index of 115.1, which is 15.1% higher than the national average. This means that while the nominal salary is higher, the purchasing power of that income is somewhat diminished by the increased cost of goods and services in the state.
Job Market Context
660
Total Jobs
0.186
Per 1K Jobs
0.6
Location Quotient
Washington has 0.60x 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.
A Location Quotient of 0.6 suggests that Occupational Therapy Assistants are less concentrated in Washington compared to the national average. This could indicate a less saturated job market, potentially offering more favorable conditions for job seekers or those looking to establish a presence in the field within the state.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $75,780↑ 1% | 42 mi |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, WA Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $73,020↓ 2% | 70 mi |
Comparing salaries near Washington
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistants make in Washington?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapy Assistants in Washington is $74,720. This typically ranges from $60,430 for entry-level positions to $86,410 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Washington is 7.8% higher than the national median of $69,310.
Is Washington a lucrative place for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
Yes, Washington offers a lucrative environment for Occupational Therapy Assistants.The state boasts an average salary significantly above the national average, indicating strong earning potential. However, this is tempered by a higher cost of living, requiring careful financial planning.
Is Washington a good place to live for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Washington is 115.1. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Washington?
Some top paying nearby cities include Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($75,780) and Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, WA.
How does the Washington salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Washington is $74,720, which is $5,410 higher than the national average of $69,310.
What is the concentration of Occupational Therapy Assistants in Washington?
Washington has a Location Quotient of 0.6, meaning the concentration of Occupational Therapy Assistants is 40% lower than the national average.
How does the cost of living affect the salary in Washington?
With a Cost of Living Index of 115.1, Washington is more expensive than the national average. This means the higher salary needs to be considered against the increased expenses for housing, goods, and services.
What does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers indicate?
The figure of 0.186 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests the relative prevalence of Occupational Therapy Assistant roles within the broader workforce in Washington.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 660 employees in the Washington area with a job density of 0.186 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 Washington