Occupational Therapist Salary in South Carolina
Based on 2K+ workers in South Carolina
Median Annual Salary (SC)
$101,130
$48.62/hr
vs National Average
$98,754
+2.4% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$75K – $123K
2K employed in South Carolina
Discover the Occupational Therapist salary in South Carolina, where the median annual income stands at $101,130. This figure represents a compensation 2% above the national average, with a typical earning range between $75,370 and $123,110 per year. Currently, South Carolina employs approximately 1,840 dedicated occupational therapists within its workforce.
Several factors influence the Occupational Therapist salary in South Carolina. Experience level plays a significant role, with seasoned professionals generally commanding higher salaries. Additionally, the specific setting where an occupational therapist practices, such as hospitals, private clinics, or schools, can impact their earning potential, alongside the demand for their specialized skills within particular regions of the state.
Salary Distribution — Occupational Therapist in South Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $75,370 |
| 25th percentile | $82,000 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $101,130 |
| 75th percentile | $109,720 |
| 90th percentile | $123,110 |
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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina vs National
| Year | Median Salary (South Carolina) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $84,390 |
| 2023 | $91,620 |
| 2024 | $97,370 |
| 2025 | $101,130 |
| 2026 (projected) | $105,035 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | South Carolina Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $84,390 | $88,771 |
| 2023 | $91,620 | $93,040 |
| 2024 | $97,370 | $95,329 |
| 2025 | $101,130 | $98,754 |
| 2026 (projected) | $105,035 | $102,567 |
Occupational Therapist Salary by Experience Level in South Carolina
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $82,000 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $101,130 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $109,720 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $123,110 |
Occupational Therapist Salary in Other States
Related Occupational Therapist Salaries in South Carolina
How other high-demand occupations in South Carolina compare to Occupational Therapist ($101,130 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Occupational Therapist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Medicine Physician in SC | $359,500 | +255.5% | $172.84/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in SC | $341,960 | +238.1% | $164.40/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in SC | $302,340 | +199.0% | $145.36/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in SC | $265,480 | +162.5% | $127.63/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in SC | $239,200 | +136.5% | $115.00/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in SC | $238,970 | +136.3% | $114.89/hr |
| Psychiatrist in SC | $237,250 | +134.6% | $114.06/hr |
| Pediatrician in SC | $217,120 | +114.7% | $104.38/hr |
| Radiologist in SC | $174,480 | +72.5% | $83.88/hr |
| Podiatrist in SC | $167,110 | +65.2% | $80.34/hr |
| Dentist in SC | $158,640 | +56.9% | $76.27/hr |
| Optometrist in SC | $145,950 | +44.3% | $70.17/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for an Occupational Therapist in South Carolina?
- The median salary for an Occupational Therapist in South Carolina is $101,130 per year, which is about $49 per hour. This is 2.4% higher than the national average for the profession.
What is the salary range for Occupational Therapists in South Carolina?
- In South Carolina, Occupational Therapists typically earn between $75,370 and $123,110 annually. The median salary falls within this range at $101,130 per year.
How many Occupational Therapists are employed in South Carolina?
- There are approximately 1,840 Occupational Therapists employed in South Carolina. The median salary for these professionals is $101,130 per year.
Is the salary for Occupational Therapists in South Carolina higher than the national average?
- Yes, the salary for Occupational Therapists in South Carolina is slightly higher than the national average, by approximately 2.4%. The median annual salary in South Carolina is $101,130, compared to the national median.