Occupational Therapist Salary in Columbia, MO: $81,998 (2026)

Occupational Therapist Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)

Columbia offers a median occupational therapist salary of $81,998, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $81,998. Compared to the national median of $93,180, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $81,998 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $93,180 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for occupational therapists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for occupational therapists in Columbia spans from $54,560 at the 10th percentile to $112,209 at the 90th percentile — a $57,649 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $56,320, while senior occupational therapists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $105,600. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.

Occupational Therapist Salary in Columbia by Experience

In Columbia, an entry-level occupational therapist earns around $56,320, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$56,320

$-7,680 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$81,840

$-11,160 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$105,600

$-14,400 vs national

Percentile	Columbia	MO State	National
10th Percentile	$54,560	$54,560	$62,000
25th Percentile	$67,936	$67,936	$77,200
Median (50th)	$81,998	$81,998	$93,180
75th Percentile	$96,624	$96,624	$109,800
90th Percentile	$112,209	$112,209	$127,510

Percentile

Columbia

10th Percentile

$54,560

25th Percentile

$67,936

Median (50th)

$81,998

75th Percentile

$96,624

90th Percentile

$112,209

How to Become a Occupational Therapist in Columbia

Education

Most occupational therapist positions require a master's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Therapeutic ActivitiesPatient AssessmentAdaptive EquipmentDocumentationRehabilitationCommunication

Job Outlook

Nationally, occupational therapist employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Occupational Therapist Salary in Columbia

How much does a Occupational Therapist make in Columbia, MO? ▼

The median occupational therapist salary in Columbia, Missouri is $81,998 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $93,180. Salaries range from $54,560 (10th percentile) to $112,209 (90th percentile).

How much does a Occupational Therapist make per hour in Columbia? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $81,998, a occupational therapist in Columbia earns approximately $39 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Columbia compare to the Missouri state average for occupational therapist pay? ▼

Columbia's median occupational therapist salary of $81,998 is 0.0% above the Missouri state average of $81,998. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Columbia, MO? ▼

Columbia has a cost of living index of 88% compared to the national average. This means a occupational therapist salary of $81,998 in Columbia has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a occupational therapist in Columbia? ▼

Most occupational therapist positions in Columbia require a master's degree. Key skills include Therapeutic Activities, Patient Assessment, Adaptive Equipment, Documentation. The job market is projected to grow 12% nationally over the next decade.

Occupational Therapist Salary in Columbia, Missouri