Occupational Therapist Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania$80,750 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Occupational Therapist Jobs in Pittsburgh

Looking for a Occupational Therapist job in Pittsburgh? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Occupational Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Pittsburgh has a strong job market for Occupational Therapists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Occupational Therapist Salary in Pittsburgh

Entry Level
$56,525
Median
$80,750
Senior Level
$109,250

Occupational Therapist salaries in Pittsburgh are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Pittsburgh is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Patient AssessmentTreatment PlanningAdaptive EquipmentDocumentationCommunication

Occupational Therapist Job Market in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA is a major regional employment hub for Occupational Therapist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Pittsburgh offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Technology and Healthcare sectors create robust demand for Occupational Therapist talent. The market for Occupational Therapist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Occupational Therapists in Pittsburgh

UPMCAllegheny Health NetworkHighmark Health

Major employers hiring Occupational Therapists in Pittsburgh include UPMC, Allegheny Health Network, Highmark Health. With major hospital systems and research institutions, Pittsburgh offers excellent opportunities for healthcare professionals at all career stages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Occupational Therapists in Pittsburgh

Living in Pittsburgh as a Occupational Therapist means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,400/month (22% below the national average). At median Occupational Therapist salary, housing is quite affordable at 21% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,000/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

95
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.4K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Occupational Therapist in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Occupational Therapists in Pittsburgh: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Occupational Therapist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Occupational Therapists

The job outlook for Occupational Therapists in Pittsburgh is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Pittsburgh's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Patient Assessment, Treatment Planning, Adaptive Equipment, Documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Occupational Therapist salary in Pittsburgh, PA?

The average Occupational Therapist salary in Pittsburgh, PA is $80,750 per year. Entry-level Occupational Therapists typically start around $56,525, while experienced professionals can earn $109,250 or more. The national average for Occupational Therapist roles is $85,000.

How many Occupational Therapist jobs are available in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh has a strong job market with regular openings for Occupational Therapist professionals. Major employers hiring Occupational Therapists include UPMC, Allegheny Health Network, Highmark Health. The Technology and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Pittsburgh a good city for Occupational Therapists?

Pittsburgh is an excellent choice for Occupational Therapists. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Occupational Therapists in Pittsburgh?

Top skills for Occupational Therapists in Pittsburgh include Patient Assessment, Treatment Planning, Adaptive Equipment, Documentation, Communication. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Occupational Therapists in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh's cost of living is near the national average (95% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,400/month. Purchasing power in Pittsburgh is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Occupational Therapists in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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