Occupational Therapist Salary in Nebraska
Based on 2K+ workers in Nebraska
Median Annual Salary (NE)
$93,740
$45.07/hr
vs National Average
$98,754
-5.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$70K – $108K
2K employed in Nebraska
Understanding the Occupational Therapist salary in Nebraska reveals a median annual income of $93,740. This figure sits 5% below the national average, with current data indicating a typical range between $70,370 and $107,780 for approximately 1,500 employed professionals in the state. This overview provides a foundational understanding of compensation for this vital healthcare role within Nebraska.
Several factors can influence an Occupational Therapist salary in Nebraska. Experience level, specific certifications, and the type of healthcare setting—such as hospitals, schools, or private practice—all play a significant role. Additionally, the geographic location within Nebraska, with potential variations between urban and rural areas, can impact earning potential for these dedicated professionals.
Salary Distribution — Occupational Therapist in Nebraska
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $70,370 |
| 25th percentile | $80,350 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $93,740 |
| 75th percentile | $102,560 |
| 90th percentile | $107,780 |
Top-Paying Industries for Occupational Therapist (U.S.)
Which industries pay Occupational Therapists the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Occupational Therapists in Nebraska tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $105,560 | 3K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $101,950 | 200 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $101,410 | 570 |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $101,080 | 133K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $100,120 | 3K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Occupational Therapist in Nebraska vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Nebraska) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $83,530 |
| 2023 | $84,850 |
| 2024 | $87,010 |
| 2025 | $93,740 |
| 2026 (projected) | $99,364 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Nebraska Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $83,530 | $88,771 |
| 2023 | $84,850 | $93,040 |
| 2024 | $87,010 | $95,329 |
| 2025 | $93,740 | $98,754 |
| 2026 (projected) | $99,364 | $104,679 |
Occupational Therapist Salary by Experience Level in Nebraska
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $80,350 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $93,740 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $102,560 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $107,780 |
Occupational Therapist Salary in Other States
Related Occupational Therapist Salaries in Nebraska
How other high-demand occupations in Nebraska compare to Occupational Therapist ($93,740 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Occupational Therapist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in NE | $646,300 | +589.5% | $310.72/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in NE | $371,880 | +296.7% | $178.79/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in NE | $342,570 | +265.4% | $164.70/hr |
| Surgeon in NE | $341,410 | +264.2% | $164.14/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in NE | $334,210 | +256.5% | $160.68/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in NE | $246,730 | +163.2% | $118.62/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in NE | $228,590 | +143.9% | $109.90/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in NE | $221,360 | +136.1% | $106.42/hr |
| Dentist in NE | $179,750 | +91.8% | $86.42/hr |
| Pediatrician in NE | $175,990 | +87.7% | $84.61/hr |
| Pharmacist in NE | $139,330 | +48.6% | $66.99/hr |
| Nurse Midwife in NE | $138,880 | +48.2% | $66.77/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for an Occupational Therapist in Nebraska?
- The median salary for Occupational Therapists in Nebraska is $93,740 per year, which breaks down to approximately $45 per hour. This median figure is 5.1% lower than the national average for this profession.
How much do Occupational Therapists typically earn in Nebraska?
- Most Occupational Therapists in Nebraska fall within a salary range of $70,370 to $107,780 annually. This range reflects the varying experience levels and specific roles within the state.
What is the salary outlook for Occupational Therapists in Nebraska compared to the rest of the country?
- Occupational Therapists in Nebraska earn, on average, 5.1% less than their national counterparts. While the median salary is $93,740, the national median is higher.
How many Occupational Therapists are employed in Nebraska?
- There are approximately 1,500 Occupational Therapists currently employed across Nebraska. This indicates a moderate demand for the profession within the state.