Occupational Therapist Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $205,090 | +55.0% | High |
| San Diego | $195,828 | +48.0% | High |
| San Jose | $227,584 | +72.0% | High |
| San Francisco | $244,785 | +85.0% | High |
| Fresno | $142,901 | +8.0% | High |
| Sacramento | $161,426 | +22.0% | High |
| Long Beach | $191,858 | +45.0% | High |
| Bakersfield | $142,901 | +8.0% | High |
| Anaheim | $187,889 | +42.0% | High |
| Santa Ana | $185,242 | +40.0% | High |
| Riverside | $169,364 | +28.0% | High |
| Stockton | $156,133 | +18.0% | High |
| Irvine | $205,090 | +55.0% | High |
| San Bernardino | $156,133 | +18.0% | High |
| Modesto | $148,194 | +12.0% | High |
| Fontana | $161,426 | +22.0% | High |
| Moreno Valley | $152,163 | +15.0% | High |
| Glendale | $195,828 | +48.0% | High |
| Fremont | $211,706 | +60.0% | High |
California is home to a very strong job market for Occupational Therapists. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $132,316 per year, California's Occupational Therapist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in California (index: 1.42) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in California can expect to earn $90,848–$109,294, while experienced Occupational Therapists can command $150,797–$164,189.
Looking ahead, the Occupational Therapist profession in California is projected to grow at 4.1% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Technology continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Occupational Therapist salary in California?The average Occupational Therapist salary in California is $132,316 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $93,180.
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What city in California pays Occupational Therapists the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Occupational Therapists the highest wages in California due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is California a good state for Occupational Therapists?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Occupational Therapist employment.
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How does California Occupational Therapist salary compare to the US average?At $132,316/year, California Occupational Therapist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $93,180/year.