Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Occupational Therapists in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $103,700 | $78,800 | $134,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $128,900 | $97,900 | $167,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $148,200 | $112,600 | $192,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $177,800 | $135,100 | $231,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $201,500 | $153,100 | $261,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Occupational Therapists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Occupational Therapist salary in the Washington metro is $148,200 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $112,600 to $192,600 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $244,500 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC 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.
Washington vs. national: +40%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for Occupational Therapists — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Occupational Therapist salary of $148,200 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Occupational Therapists in Washington start around $103,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $177,800 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.
Get my personal salary report →