Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Illinois
The median occupational therapy assistant salary in Illinois is $63,457 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $65,420.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #23 out of 50 states for occupational therapy assistant compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for occupational therapy assistant pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $63,457 per year, occupational therapy assistants in Illinois earn $1,963 less than the national median of $65,420.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning occupational therapy assistant salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: occupational therapy assistants at the 10th percentile earn $40,740, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $89,240 — a $48,500 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $71,962.
Nationally, occupational therapy assistant employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Illinois and beyond.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level occupational therapy assistant earns around $42,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $85,360 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $40,740 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,440 |
| Median (50th) | $63,457 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $89,240 |
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for occupational therapy assistants in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Occupational Therapy Assistant in Illinois
Education
Most occupational therapy assistant positions require a associate's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, occupational therapy assistant employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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