Occupational Therapist Salary in Wheeling, WV: $70,817 (2026)

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

Wheeling offers a median occupational therapist salary of $70,817, which is $5,591 below the West Virginia state average of $76,408. Compared to the national median of $93,180, Wheeling pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Wheeling's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 78% of the national average. This means the $70,817 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $90,791 in an average-cost city. This makes Wheeling an attractive option for occupational therapists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for occupational therapists in Wheeling spans from $47,120 at the 10th percentile to $96,908 at the 90th percentile — a $49,788 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $48,640, while senior occupational therapists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $91,200. Wheeling is a smaller market (pop. 26,711), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.

Occupational Therapist Salary in Wheeling by Experience

In Wheeling, an entry-level occupational therapist earns around $48,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 78% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$48,640

$-15,360 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$70,680

$-22,320 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$91,200

$-28,800 vs national

Percentile	Wheeling	WV State	National
10th Percentile	$47,120	$50,840	$62,000
25th Percentile	$58,672	$63,304	$77,200
Median (50th)	$70,817	$76,408	$93,180
75th Percentile	$83,448	$90,036	$109,800
90th Percentile	$96,908	$104,558	$127,510

Percentile

Wheeling

10th Percentile

$47,120

25th Percentile

$58,672

Median (50th)

$70,817

75th Percentile

$83,448

90th Percentile

$96,908

How to Become a Occupational Therapist in Wheeling

Education

Most occupational therapist positions require a master's degree. Wheeling and the surrounding West Virginia 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 Wheeling may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Occupational Therapist Salary in Wheeling

How much does a Occupational Therapist make in Wheeling, WV? ▼

The median occupational therapist salary in Wheeling, West Virginia is $70,817 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $93,180. Salaries range from $47,120 (10th percentile) to $96,908 (90th percentile).

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

Based on the median annual salary of $70,817, a occupational therapist in Wheeling earns approximately $34 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Wheeling compare to the West Virginia state average for occupational therapist pay? ▼

Wheeling's median occupational therapist salary of $70,817 is 7.3% below the West Virginia state average of $76,408. The local cost of living index is 78% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Wheeling, WV? ▼

Wheeling has a cost of living index of 78% compared to the national average. This means a occupational therapist salary of $70,817 in Wheeling has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

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

Most occupational therapist positions in Wheeling 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 Wheeling, West Virginia