Occupational Therapist vs Physical Therapist salary
In South Africa, a physical therapist earns about 3% more than a occupational therapist — $35,407 vs $34,367 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is ZAR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
Healthcare
Occupational Therapist$34,367/yr
- Monthly
- $2,862
- Hourly
- $17
- Range
- $25,708–$44,953
- 10-yr outlook
- +12%
Pays more
Healthcare
Physical Therapist$35,407/yr
- Monthly
- $2,954
- Hourly
- $17
- Range
- $26,485–$46,310
- 10-yr outlook
- +15%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Occupational Therapist | Physical Therapist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $25,708 | $26,485 |
| 25th | $30,038 | $30,943 |
| Median | $34,367 | $35,407 |
| 75th | $39,657 | $40,862 |
| Senior (90th) | $44,953 | $46,310 |
National South Africa figures in ZAR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a occupational therapist or physical therapist earn more in South Africa?
- A physical therapist earns more, at about R 579 000 per year vs R 562 000 for a occupational therapist — roughly 3% (R 17 000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in South Africa?
- A occupational therapist typically earns R 420 400–R 735 100, while a physical therapist earns R 433 100–R 757 300 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in South Africa?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a occupational therapist averages about R 46 800 and a physical therapist about R 48 300.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in South Africa, a occupational therapist earns about R 420 400 while a physical therapist earns about R 433 100 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in South Africa, a occupational therapist earns about R 735 100 while a physical therapist earns about R 757 300 per year.
- Are occupational therapist and physical therapist similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Healthcare category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.