Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Occupational Therapists in San Diego get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Diego metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $97,000 | $73,700 | $126,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $120,600 | $91,600 | $156,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $138,700 | $105,400 | $180,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $166,400 | $126,400 | $216,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $188,600 | $143,300 | $245,000 |
Highest-paying metros for Occupational Therapists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Occupational Therapist salary in the San Diego metro is $138,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $105,400 to $180,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $228,800 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -3% relative to the California state median for Occupational Therapists. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
San Diego vs. national: +31%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Occupational Therapists — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Occupational Therapist salary of $138,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Occupational Therapists in San Diego start around $97,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $166,400 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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