Occupational Therapy Assistant Hourly Pay in Plymouth, MN: $34.83 (2026)

In Plymouth, Minnesota, the projected median hourly pay for occupational therapy assistants is $34.83, slightly below the national average of $35.74. This rate offers a reasonable income for those considering part-time or per-diem positions in various settings, including skilled nursing facilities, hospital rehabilitation units, school therapy rooms, outpatient clinics, and even home health visits. For entry-level practitioners just starting their careers, the hourly wage typically begins around $23.52, scaling up to about $41.95 for experienced professionals in the area. Such figures reflect the vital role occupational therapy assistants play in rehabilitation and patient care, allowing for a flexible work-life balance, especially for those juggling multiple jobs or seeking to work less than full-time.

Looking at the earning potential for a part-time occupational therapy assistant working three days a week, the annual take-home income can be quite favorable compared to a full-time position, particularly with the increasing demand for COTAs driven by the evolving healthcare environment. For per-diem and contract workers, billing rates in Plymouth generally range from $30 to $45 per hour, with travel contracts paying between $1,100 and $1,700 weekly. The reimbursement cuts that took effect after 2022 have caused a decline in premium pay in skilled nursing facilities. However, hourly rates can fluctuate significantly depending on the employer type, with school district contracts and outpatient clinics occasionally offering lower wages compared to agencies that provide direct client encounters. For many, the choice between accepting a lower hourly rate with benefits or opting for a higher rate without benefits is a practical one, impacting their long-term financial outcomes. Those negotiating their hourly pay in Plymouth should focus on the unique offerings of each employer, weighing health insurance against pay flexibility to ensure a satisfying career path in this rewarding field.