Healthcare Maryland (MD) Rank #9 of 50

Occupational Therapist Salary in Maryland

The median occupational therapist salary in Maryland is $106,225 per year, which is 14.0% above the national median of $93,180.

Median Salary
$106,225
vs National
+$13,045
State Rank
#9 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Occupational Therapist Salary Overview in Maryland (2026)

Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for occupational therapist compensation. This places Maryland in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for occupational therapists seeking high pay. At $106,225 per year, occupational therapists in Maryland earn $13,045 more than the national median of $93,180.

It's worth noting that Maryland's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $106,225 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $96,568.

The salary spread in Maryland is significant: occupational therapists at the 10th percentile earn $70,680, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $145,361 — a $74,681 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maryland for this role is Silver Spring, where the median reaches $117,407.

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 Maryland and beyond.

Occupational Therapist Salary in Maryland by Experience

In Maryland, an entry-level occupational therapist earns around $72,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $136,800 per year. The cost of living index in Maryland is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$72,960
+$8,960 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$106,020
+$13,020 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$136,800
+$16,800 vs national

You May Qualify for Premium Rewards

Professionals earning $106,225+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.

View Offers You Qualify For →

Salary Percentiles in Maryland

Percentile MD Salary
10th Percentile $70,680
25th Percentile $88,008
Median (50th) $106,225
75th Percentile $125,172
90th Percentile $145,361

Occupational Therapist Salary by City in Maryland

The largest employment areas for occupational therapists in Maryland include Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Germantown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Occupational Therapist in Maryland

Education

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

Key Skills

Therapeutic ActivitiesPatient AssessmentAdaptive EquipmentDocumentationRehabilitationCommunication

Job Outlook in Maryland

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

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Occupational Therapists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $30,575 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Occupational Therapist Roles in Maryland?

Get matched with recruiters hiring occupational therapists in Maryland at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Occupational Therapist Salary in Maryland

How much does a Occupational Therapist make in Maryland? ▼
The median occupational therapist salary in Maryland is $106,225 per year, which is 14.0% above the national median of $93,180. Salaries range from $70,680 (10th percentile) to $145,361 (90th percentile).
How much does a Occupational Therapist make per hour in Maryland? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $106,225, a occupational therapist in Maryland earns approximately $51 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Maryland a good state for occupational therapists? ▼
Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for occupational therapist pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level occupational therapists earn $72,960, while senior professionals earn $136,800.
How does Maryland compare to other states for occupational therapist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for occupational therapists is Hawaii at $165,860. Maryland's median of $106,225 ranks #9 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Washington ($110,884) and Connecticut ($108,089).
What is the entry-level occupational therapist salary in Maryland? ▼
An entry-level occupational therapist in Maryland earns approximately $72,960 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $106,020. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $136,800.
What city in Maryland pays occupational therapists the most? ▼
Silver Spring is the highest paying city in Maryland for occupational therapists, with a median salary of $117,407. Other cities include Baltimore and Columbia.