Healthcare Connecticut (CT) Rank #8 of 50

Occupational Therapist Salary in Connecticut

The median occupational therapist salary in Connecticut is $108,089 per year, which is 16.0% above the national median of $93,180.

Median Salary
$108,089
vs National
+$14,909
State Rank
#8 of 50
Cost of Living
112%

Occupational Therapist Salary Overview in Connecticut (2026)

Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for occupational therapist compensation. This places Connecticut in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for occupational therapists seeking high pay. At $108,089 per year, occupational therapists in Connecticut earn $14,909 more than the national median of $93,180.

It's worth noting that Connecticut's cost of living is 112% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $108,089 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $96,508.

The salary spread in Connecticut is significant: occupational therapists at the 10th percentile earn $71,920, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $147,912 — a $75,992 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Connecticut for this role is Stamford, where the median reaches $132,316.

Nationally, occupational therapist employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Connecticut and beyond.

Occupational Therapist Salary in Connecticut by Experience

In Connecticut, an entry-level occupational therapist earns around $74,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $139,200 per year. The cost of living index in Connecticut is 112% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$74,240
+$10,240 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$107,880
+$14,880 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$139,200
+$19,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Connecticut

Percentile CT Salary
10th Percentile $71,920
25th Percentile $89,552
Median (50th) $108,089
75th Percentile $127,368
90th Percentile $147,912

Occupational Therapist Salary by City in Connecticut

The largest employment areas for occupational therapists in Connecticut include Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford, and Stamford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Occupational Therapist in Connecticut

Education

Most occupational therapist positions require a master's degree. Connecticut has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Therapeutic ActivitiesPatient AssessmentAdaptive EquipmentDocumentationRehabilitationCommunication

Job Outlook in Connecticut

Nationally, occupational therapist employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). Connecticut's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Occupational Therapist Salary in Connecticut

How much does a Occupational Therapist make in Connecticut? ▼
The median occupational therapist salary in Connecticut is $108,089 per year, which is 16.0% above the national median of $93,180. Salaries range from $71,920 (10th percentile) to $147,912 (90th percentile).
How much does a Occupational Therapist make per hour in Connecticut? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $108,089, a occupational therapist in Connecticut earns approximately $52 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Connecticut a good state for occupational therapists? ▼
Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for occupational therapist pay. The cost of living index is 112% of the national average. Entry-level occupational therapists earn $74,240, while senior professionals earn $139,200.
How does Connecticut compare to other states for occupational therapist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for occupational therapists is Hawaii at $165,860. Connecticut's median of $108,089 ranks #8 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Jersey ($111,816) and Washington ($110,884).
What is the entry-level occupational therapist salary in Connecticut? ▼
An entry-level occupational therapist in Connecticut earns approximately $74,240 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $107,880. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $139,200.
What city in Connecticut pays occupational therapists the most? ▼
Stamford is the highest paying city in Connecticut for occupational therapists, with a median salary of $132,316. Other cities include Bridgeport and New Haven.