Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Occupational Therapist vs Surgeon salary

In United States, a surgeon earns about 308% more than a occupational therapist $433,000 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
Surgeon
$433,000/yr
Monthly
$36,100
Hourly
$208
Range
$277,100$623,500
10-yr outlook
+3%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileOccupational TherapistSurgeon
Entry (10th)$79,300$277,100
25th$92,600$355,100
Median$106,000$433,000
75th$122,300$528,300
Senior (90th)$138,600$623,500

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

More Healthcare comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a occupational therapist or surgeon earn more in United States?
A surgeon earns more, at about $433,000 per year vs $106,000 for a occupational therapist — roughly 308% ($327,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A occupational therapist typically earns $79,300–$138,600, while a surgeon earns $277,100–$623,500 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 surgeon about $36,100.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a occupational therapist earns about $79,300 while a surgeon earns about $277,100 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a occupational therapist earns about $138,600 while a surgeon earns about $623,500 per year.
Are occupational therapist and surgeon 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.