Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Occupational Therapist vs Physician Assistant salary

In United States, a physician assistant earns about 50% more than a occupational therapist — $159,000 vs $106,000 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Healthcare
Occupational Therapist
$106,000/yr
Monthly
$8,800
Hourly
$51
Range
$79,300–$138,600
10-yr outlook
+12%
Pays more
Healthcare
Physician Assistant
$159,000/yr
Monthly
$13,300
Hourly
$76
Range
$116,100–$211,500
10-yr outlook
+27%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileOccupational TherapistPhysician Assistant
Entry (10th)$79,300$116,100
25th$92,600$137,500
Median$106,000$159,000
75th$122,300$185,200
Senior (90th)$138,600$211,500

National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Healthcare comparisons

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Frequently asked questions

Does a occupational therapist or physician assistant earn more in United States?
A physician assistant earns more, at about $159,000 per year vs $106,000 for a occupational therapist — roughly 50% ($53,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A occupational therapist typically earns $79,300–$138,600, while a physician assistant earns $116,100–$211,500 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a occupational therapist averages about $8,800 and a physician assistant about $13,300.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a occupational therapist earns about $79,300 while a physician assistant earns about $116,100 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a occupational therapist earns about $138,600 while a physician assistant earns about $211,500 per year.
Are occupational therapist and physician assistant 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.