Healthcare Kentucky (KY) Rank #46 of 50

Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Kentucky

The median occupational therapy assistant salary in Kentucky is $56,915 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $65,420.

Median Salary
$56,915
vs National
$-8,505
State Rank
#46 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)

Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for occupational therapy assistant compensation. Occupational Therapy Assistant salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $56,915 per year, occupational therapy assistants in Kentucky earn $8,505 less than the national median of $65,420.

A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $56,915 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $65,420 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: occupational therapy assistants at the 10th percentile earn $36,540, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $80,040 — a $43,500 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Kentucky for this role is Lexington, where the median reaches $60,841.

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 Kentucky and beyond.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Kentucky by Experience

In Kentucky, an entry-level occupational therapy assistant earns around $38,280, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,560 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$38,280
$-5,720 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$57,420
$-8,580 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$76,560
$-11,440 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Kentucky

Percentile KY Salary
10th Percentile $36,540
25th Percentile $45,240
Median (50th) $56,915
75th Percentile $69,600
90th Percentile $80,040

Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary by City in Kentucky

The largest employment areas for occupational therapy assistants in Kentucky include Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, and Owensboro. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Occupational Therapy Assistant in Kentucky

Education

Most occupational therapy assistant positions require a associate's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Therapeutic ExercisesPatient CareDocumentationCommunicationAdaptabilityCompassion

Job Outlook in Kentucky

Nationally, occupational therapy assistant employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Kentucky

How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistant make in Kentucky? ▼
The median occupational therapy assistant salary in Kentucky is $56,915 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $65,420. Salaries range from $36,540 (10th percentile) to $80,040 (90th percentile).
How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistant make per hour in Kentucky? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $56,915, a occupational therapy assistant in Kentucky earns approximately $27 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Kentucky a good state for occupational therapy assistants? ▼
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for occupational therapy assistant pay. The cost of living index is 87% of the national average. Entry-level occupational therapy assistants earn $38,280, while senior professionals earn $76,560.
How does Kentucky compare to other states for occupational therapy assistant salary? ▼
The highest paying state for occupational therapy assistants is Hawaii at $116,448. Kentucky's median of $56,915 ranks #46 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Alabama ($56,915) and Kansas ($56,915).
What is the entry-level occupational therapy assistant salary in Kentucky? ▼
An entry-level occupational therapy assistant in Kentucky earns approximately $38,280 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $57,420. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $76,560.
What city in Kentucky pays occupational therapy assistants the most? ▼
Lexington is the highest paying city in Kentucky for occupational therapy assistants, with a median salary of $60,841. Other cities include Louisville and Bowling Green.