Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Chattanooga, Tennessee
The median occupational therapy assistant salary in Chattanooga, TN is $58,878 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Pay in Chattanooga: What to Expect (2026)
Chattanooga offers a median occupational therapy assistant salary of $58,878, which is $654 below the Tennessee state average of $59,532. Compared to the national median of $65,420, Chattanooga pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Chattanooga's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $58,878 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $66,907 in an average-cost city. This makes Chattanooga an attractive option for occupational therapy assistants seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for occupational therapy assistants in Chattanooga spans from $37,800 at the 10th percentile to $82,800 at the 90th percentile — a $45,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $39,600, while senior occupational therapy assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $79,200. With a population of 181,099, Chattanooga is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Chattanooga by Experience
In Chattanooga, an entry-level occupational therapy assistant earns around $39,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chattanooga, TN
| Percentile | Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $37,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,800 |
| Median (50th) | $58,878 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $82,800 |
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Occupational Therapy Assistant in Chattanooga
Education
Most occupational therapy assistant positions require a associate's degree. Chattanooga and the surrounding Tennessee 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 Chattanooga may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Chattanooga
Browse open occupational therapy assistant positions in Chattanooga, TN: