Occupational Therapist Salary in North Carolina (2026)
North Carolina · 9.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | $81,402 | -4.0% | High |
| Raleigh | $83,098 | -2.0% | High |
| Greensboro | $76,315 | -10.0% | High |
| Durham | $82,250 | -3.0% | High |
| Winston-Salem | $73,771 | -13.0% | High |
North Carolina is home to a strong job market for Occupational Therapists. The state's key industries — Technology, Finance, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $84,794 per year, North Carolina's Occupational Therapist salaries are 9.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in North Carolina (index: 0.91) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in North Carolina can expect to earn $58,219–$70,040, while experienced Occupational Therapists can command $96,638–$105,219.
Looking ahead, the Occupational Therapist profession in North Carolina 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 North Carolina?The average Occupational Therapist salary in North Carolina is $84,794 per year in 2026, which is 9.0% below the national average of $93,180.
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What city in North Carolina pays Occupational Therapists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Occupational Therapists the highest wages in North Carolina due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is North Carolina a good state for Occupational Therapists?North Carolina has a strong job market with major industries in Technology, Finance, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Occupational Therapist employment.
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How does North Carolina Occupational Therapist salary compare to the US average?At $84,794/year, North Carolina Occupational Therapist salaries are 9.0% lower than the national average of $93,180/year.