An occupational therapist salary in North Carolina can vary based on factors such as the work setting, school district, and personal experience.
While we’ll share a few numbers with you, the truth is that occupational therapists’ salaries vary depending on position, location, and years of experience.
According to a 2023 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an occupational therapist’s salary in North Carolina ranges from $87,000 - 92,000. Salary.com places the average higher—as do other websites.
In 2024, BLS listed the national average close to $98,000.
As with any job, pay varies greatly depending on where you live and work. The average cost of living in North Carolina suggests that a single adult may need about $51,081 per year to live comfortably.
Salaries can be negotiated before accepting a position. Be sure to provide an accurate, up-to-date resume that details your work experience. This updated resume showing experience can help you negotiate a higher salary as an occupational therapist in North Carolina.
It’s important to remember that it’s not always all about the salary or pay rate. While earning a higher salary is always attractive, some people may find that other job benefits are more important than salary.
For many occupational therapists, working in a school setting offers a healthier work-life balance and perks compared to positions in other settings. Working as an OT in a school also allows you to work directly with youth and enjoy professional development.
The type of school you work in can affect your salary as an occupational therapist in a school setting. However, no national or state-wide data shows a clear consensus on whether OTs in public or private schools earn higher salaries.
The differences are more dependent on the type of school, location, and the applicant's expertise. The size of the school district may also affect the kind of salary they can offer, based on available resources and the number of students on each caseload.
An occupational therapist's salary in North Carolina may be higher if you have specific certifications. OTs in every state will first need NBCOT National Certification for licensure. You will also need to obtain a North Carolina state license.
However, beyond this, additional certifications can help you set yourself apart as a candidate and command a higher salary. Some optional certifications/continuing education to consider include specific certifications through the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) that specialize in working with particular populations or individuals with specific conditions.
We know salary is just one piece of the decision when it comes to choosing how to move forward in your professional career. You want a professional path that supports growth, balance, and impact.
At Pediatric Therapeutic Services, school districts nationwide partner with us to provide resources and support for their therapy teams.
When you work with us, you’ll enjoy work-life balance and make a difference in the lives of students. You can expect:
If you're interested in becoming a school-based occupational therapist, fill out our form to learn more about joining our team. One of our recruiters will reach out to share more details about our local opportunities.