Healthcare Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Virginia

The median occupational therapy assistant salary in Virginia is $69,345 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $65,420.

Median Salary
$69,345
vs National
+$3,925
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)

Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for occupational therapy assistant compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for occupational therapy assistant pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $69,345 per year, occupational therapy assistants in Virginia earn $3,925 more than the national median of $65,420.

Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning occupational therapy assistant salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Virginia is significant: occupational therapy assistants at the 10th percentile earn $44,520, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $97,520 — a $53,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Virginia for this role is Arlington, where the median reaches $87,663.

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 Virginia and beyond.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level occupational therapy assistant earns around $46,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $93,280 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$46,640
+$2,640 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$69,960
+$3,960 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$93,280
+$5,280 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $44,520
25th Percentile $55,120
Median (50th) $69,345
75th Percentile $84,800
90th Percentile $97,520

Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for occupational therapy assistants in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Occupational Therapy Assistant in Virginia

Education

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

Key Skills

Therapeutic ExercisesPatient CareDocumentationCommunicationAdaptabilityCompassion

Job Outlook in Virginia

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary in Virginia

How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistant make in Virginia? ▼
The median occupational therapy assistant salary in Virginia is $69,345 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $65,420. Salaries range from $44,520 (10th percentile) to $97,520 (90th percentile).
How much does a Occupational Therapy Assistant make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $69,345, a occupational therapy assistant in Virginia earns approximately $33 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for occupational therapy assistants? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for occupational therapy assistant pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level occupational therapy assistants earn $46,640, while senior professionals earn $93,280.
How does Virginia compare to other states for occupational therapy assistant salary? ▼
The highest paying state for occupational therapy assistants is Hawaii at $116,448. Virginia's median of $69,345 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Rhode Island ($70,654) and Colorado ($69,999).
What is the entry-level occupational therapy assistant salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level occupational therapy assistant in Virginia earns approximately $46,640 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $69,960. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $93,280.
What city in Virginia pays occupational therapy assistants the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for occupational therapy assistants, with a median salary of $87,663. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.