Pay by Role
South Africa · Salary comparison

Occupational Therapist vs Physician salary

In South Africa, a physician earns about 169% more than a occupational therapist $92,339 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
Physician
$92,339/yr
Monthly
$7,693
Hourly
$44
Range
$59,097$132,969
10-yr outlook
+3%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileOccupational TherapistPhysician
Entry (10th)$25,708$59,097
25th$30,038$75,718
Median$34,367$92,339
75th$39,657$112,654
Senior (90th)$44,953$132,969

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 physician earn more in South Africa?
A physician earns more, at about R 1 510 000 per year vs R 562 000 for a occupational therapist — roughly 169% (R 948 000) 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 physician earns R 966 400–R 2 174 400 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 physician about R 125 800.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in South Africa, a occupational therapist earns about R 420 400 while a physician earns about R 966 400 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 physician earns about R 2 174 400 per year.
Are occupational therapist and physician 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.