Occupational Therapist Salary in Aberdeen, SD: $78,271 (2026)

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

Aberdeen offers a median occupational therapist salary of $78,271, which is $3,727 below the South Dakota state average of $81,998. Compared to the national median of $93,180, Aberdeen pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Aberdeen's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 84% of the national average. This means the $78,271 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $93,180 in an average-cost city. This makes Aberdeen an attractive option for occupational therapists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for occupational therapists in Aberdeen spans from $52,080 at the 10th percentile to $107,108 at the 90th percentile — a $55,028 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $53,760, while senior occupational therapists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $100,800. Aberdeen is a smaller market (pop. 28,324), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.

Occupational Therapist Salary in Aberdeen by Experience

In Aberdeen, an entry-level occupational therapist earns around $53,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $100,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$53,760

$-10,240 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$78,120

$-14,880 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$100,800

$-19,200 vs national

Percentile	Aberdeen	SD State	National
10th Percentile	$52,080	$54,560	$62,000
25th Percentile	$64,848	$67,936	$77,200
Median (50th)	$78,271	$81,998	$93,180
75th Percentile	$92,232	$96,624	$109,800
90th Percentile	$107,108	$112,209	$127,510

Percentile

Aberdeen

10th Percentile

$52,080

25th Percentile

$64,848

Median (50th)

$78,271

75th Percentile

$92,232

90th Percentile

$107,108

How to Become a Occupational Therapist in Aberdeen

Education

Most occupational therapist positions require a master's degree. Aberdeen and the surrounding South Dakota 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 Aberdeen may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Occupational Therapist Salary in Aberdeen

How much does a Occupational Therapist make in Aberdeen, SD? ▼

The median occupational therapist salary in Aberdeen, South Dakota is $78,271 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $93,180. Salaries range from $52,080 (10th percentile) to $107,108 (90th percentile).

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

Based on the median annual salary of $78,271, a occupational therapist in Aberdeen earns approximately $38 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Aberdeen compare to the South Dakota state average for occupational therapist pay? ▼

Aberdeen's median occupational therapist salary of $78,271 is 4.5% below the South Dakota state average of $81,998. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Aberdeen, SD? ▼

Aberdeen has a cost of living index of 84% compared to the national average. This means a occupational therapist salary of $78,271 in Aberdeen has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

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

Most occupational therapist positions in Aberdeen 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 Aberdeen, South Dakota