COTA Salary in Nursing Homes: 2024 Hourly Range

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) in skilled nursing facilities typically earn:

• Average hourly range: $20 – $27/hour
• Annualized (full-time): ~$41,600 – $56,160

Variables Affecting Pay

• Geographic region (metro > rural; state Medicaid rates)
• Facility size, ownership (corporate vs. nonprofit), and acuity mix
• Experience, specialty certifications (e.g., geriatrics, feeding, dementia)
• Shift differentials, overtime, per diem premiums
• Union vs. non-union

Benefits (health, retirement, CEU allowance, PTO) significantly impact total compensation. Negotiate the full package.