Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Brookings, South Dakota
The median occupational therapy assistant salary in Brookings, SD is $56,261 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 2.3% below the South Dakota state average.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Pay in Brookings: What to Expect (2026)
Brookings offers a median occupational therapy assistant salary of $56,261, which is $1,309 below the South Dakota state average of $57,570. Compared to the national median of $65,420, Brookings pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Brookings's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $56,261 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $65,420 in an average-cost city. This makes Brookings an attractive option for occupational therapy assistants seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for occupational therapy assistants in Brookings spans from $36,120 at the 10th percentile to $79,120 at the 90th percentile — a $43,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $37,840, while senior occupational therapy assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $75,680. Brookings is a smaller market (pop. 24,194), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Brookings by Experience
In Brookings, an entry-level occupational therapy assistant earns around $37,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,680 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Brookings, SD
| Percentile | Brookings |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,120 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,720 |
| Median (50th) | $56,261 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $79,120 |
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Occupational Therapy Assistant in Brookings
Education
Most occupational therapy assistant positions require a associate's degree. Brookings and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, occupational therapy assistant employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Brookings may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Brookings
Browse open occupational therapy assistant positions in Brookings, SD: