Average Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary in Worcester, MA
Occupational Therapy Assistants in Worcester, MA, earn an average annual salary of $68,140. This figure is slightly below the national average of $69,310, indicating a localized compensation structure influenced by regional economic factors and demand within the Massachusetts healthcare sector. While the nominal pay is close to the national benchmark, the cost of living in Worcester aligns perfectly with the national average, offering a stable purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $68,140 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $80,490.
- Outlook: Worcester presents a robust employment landscape for Occupational Therapy Assistants, evidenced by a substantial local workforce of 210 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.95 signifies a concentration nearly double the national average, suggesting a strong and consistent demand for these professionals within the region's healthcare facilities and rehabilitation centers. This elevated demand, relative to the national distribution, points to a healthy job market with ample opportunities.
Salary Overview
The average Occupational Therapy Assistants in Worcester, MA earns-1.7%below the national average.
$32.8
$1,310
$5,678
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Occupational Therapy Assistant salary growth in Worcester is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a positive trend over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. The healthcare sector, in general, has experienced consistent growth, driven by an aging population and increased awareness of therapeutic interventions. This sustained demand typically translates into incremental salary increases for skilled professionals like OTAs, reflecting their value and the evolving needs of patient care.
Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary Distribution in Worcester, MA
Career progression for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Worcester is typically marked by increasing earning potential. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile of the salary range, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries significantly higher than the average. The gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries represents a clear career trajectory, rewarding accumulated expertise and advanced competencies within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $47,890 | $23 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $51,105 | $24.6 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $74,020 | $35.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $85,175 | $40.9 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $80,490 | $38.7 |
Detailed Occupational Therapy Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$68,140
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$68,140
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $68,140 for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Worcester, MA, is directly comparable to the national average, given that the local Cost of Living Index is precisely 100. This means that the purchasing power of an OTA's salary in Worcester is equivalent to that of an OTA earning the national average in a typical U.S. city. Therefore, the nominal salary accurately reflects the real economic value and standard of living for these professionals in the area.
Job Market Context
210
Total Jobs
0.606
Per 1K Jobs
1.95
Location Quotient
Worcester, MA has 1.9x the national concentration of Occupational Therapy Assistants jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
Worcester's Location Quotient of 1.95 for Occupational Therapy Assistants indicates a significantly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. This suggests a robust and specialized job market where demand likely outpaces the general national trend, making it a potentially advantageous location for OTAs seeking employment. The elevated quotient implies that employers in Worcester actively recruit and retain OTAs, possibly due to a higher prevalence of healthcare facilities or a specific focus on rehabilitative services.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Occupational Therapy Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts nonmetropolitan area Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $66,440↓ 2% | 14 mi |
| Providence-Warwick, RI-MA Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $65,040↓ 5% | 37 mi |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $69,020↑ 1% | 37 mi |
| Springfield, MA Occupational Therapy Assistants Salary | $64,100↓ 6% | 39 mi |
Comparing salaries near Worcester, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistants make in Worcester, MA?
The median annual salary for a Occupational Therapy Assistants in Worcester, MA is $68,140. This typically ranges from $47,890 for entry-level positions to $80,490 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Worcester, MA is 1.7% lower than the national median of $69,310.
Is Worcester, MA a lucrative place for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
Yes, Worcester, MA offers a competitive environment for Occupational Therapy Assistants.With an average salary of $68,140 and a cost of living matching the national average, OTAs in Worcester experience strong purchasing power. The high concentration of OTAs (LQ 1.95) also suggests robust local demand.
Is Worcester, MA a good place to live for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Worcester, MA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Worcester, MA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Massachusetts nonmetropolitan area ($66,440) and Providence-Warwick, RI-MA.
How does the Worcester OTA salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Worcester, MA, is $68,140, which is slightly below the national average of $69,310.
What is the cost of living in Worcester, MA for OTAs?
The Cost of Living Index in Worcester, MA, is 100, which is exactly the national average. This means the purchasing power of an OTA's salary in Worcester is equivalent to the national average.
Is there high demand for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Worcester?
Yes, the Location Quotient of 1.95 indicates that Worcester has nearly double the concentration of Occupational Therapy Assistants compared to the national average, suggesting strong local demand.
How many Occupational Therapy Assistants work in Worcester?
There are approximately 210 Occupational Therapy Assistants employed in Worcester, MA, contributing to a significant local workforce in this specialized field.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 210 employees in the Worcester, MA area with a job density of 0.606 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 Worcester, MA