Occupational Therapist Salary in Tennessee
Based on 2K+ workers in Tennessee
Median Annual Salary (TN)
$97,700
$46.97/hr
vs National Average
$98,754
-1.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$69K – $119K
2K employed in Tennessee
Understanding the Occupational Therapist salary in Tennessee reveals a median annual income of $97,700, falling just 1% below the national average. This figure represents the midpoint, with salaries typically ranging from $68,520 to $119,070 for the approximately 2,490 professionals working in the field across the state.
Several factors can influence an Occupational Therapist salary in Tennessee. Experience level, specific certifications, and the type of facility—such as hospitals, private practices, or schools—play a significant role. Additionally, the geographic location within Tennessee can impact earning potential, with larger metropolitan areas often offering higher compensation.
Salary Distribution — Occupational Therapist in Tennessee
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $68,520 |
| 25th percentile | $81,750 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $97,700 |
| 75th percentile | $107,250 |
| 90th percentile | $119,070 |
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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Tennessee) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $95,560 |
| 2023 | $94,750 |
| 2024 | $96,030 |
| 2025 | $97,700 |
| 2026 (projected) | $99,399 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Tennessee Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $95,560 | $88,771 |
| 2023 | $94,750 | $93,040 |
| 2024 | $96,030 | $95,329 |
| 2025 | $97,700 | $98,754 |
| 2026 (projected) | $99,399 | $100,471 |
Occupational Therapist Salary by Experience Level in Tennessee
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $81,750 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $97,700 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $107,250 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $119,070 |
Occupational Therapist Salary in Other States
Related Occupational Therapist Salaries in Tennessee
How other high-demand occupations in Tennessee compare to Occupational Therapist ($97,700 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Occupational Therapist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in TN | $610,080 | +524.4% | $293.31/hr |
| Surgeon in TN | $373,510 | +282.3% | $179.57/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in TN | $354,580 | +262.9% | $170.47/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in TN | $330,620 | +238.4% | $158.95/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in TN | $232,220 | +137.7% | $111.64/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in TN | $226,830 | +132.2% | $109.05/hr |
| Dentist in TN | $215,290 | +120.4% | $103.50/hr |
| Psychiatrist in TN | $214,880 | +119.9% | $103.31/hr |
| Podiatrist in TN | $212,470 | +117.5% | $102.15/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in TN | $211,450 | +116.4% | $101.66/hr |
| Pediatrician in TN | $176,210 | +80.4% | $84.72/hr |
| Optometrist in TN | $134,170 | +37.3% | $64.50/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Occupational Therapist make in Tennessee?
- The median salary for an Occupational Therapist in Tennessee is $97,700 per year, which equates to approximately $47 per hour. The salary range typically falls between $68,520 and $119,070 annually.
What is the typical salary range for Occupational Therapists in Tennessee?
- In Tennessee, Occupational Therapists generally earn between $68,520 and $119,070 per year. The median salary sits at $97,700 annually, offering a good benchmark for potential earnings.
Is the salary for Occupational Therapists in Tennessee higher or lower than the national average?
- Occupational Therapists in Tennessee earn slightly less than the national average, with salaries being approximately 1.1% lower. The median salary in Tennessee is $97,700 per year, compared to the national median.
How many Occupational Therapists are employed in Tennessee?
- There are approximately 2,490 Occupational Therapists employed in Tennessee. This number provides context for the job market, where the median salary is $97,700 per year.