Occupational Therapist salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Occupational Therapist in South Africa is approximately 230,038 ZAR (11,442 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Occupational Therapist do?

Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals who work with individuals of all ages to help them develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. They assess a person's physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities and design personalized treatment plans to improve their independence and quality of life. Occupational therapists may work in various settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private practices. They use a variety of techniques and interventions to address their clients specific needs, which may include therapeutic exercises, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications. Occupational therapists also provide education and support to patients and their families, helping them understand and navigate the challenges they may face in their daily activities.

Skills: healthcare, rehabilitation, therapy, independence, quality of life, occupational therapy.
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Occupational Therapist make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Occupational Therapist a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Occupational Therapist is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Occupational Therapist?

High salary for Occupational Therapist would be somewhere between 253,042 ZAR and 333,555 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Occupational Therapist in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 230,038 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 19,170 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 4,424 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 111 ZAR per hour
By working as Occupational Therapist a person can save up to 682 USD per month or 8,188 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Occupational Therapist

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

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