more than RN?

[user9876]

just curious, do any of you know (at YOUR hospital) what the salary difference is like comparing RN to OT? i am very interested in occupational therapy and have heard MANY varying claims. 85% of people i've talked to say that OTs definitely make more money, basically the same as a PT, but i've searched and found a few posts on this website saying the opposite... despite the fact that it's a masters level entry profession. i don't actually know anyone who is an OT, just have several friends in OT school, and for various reasons i'm considering the profession. it totally intrigues me. if anyone could add their input, please do. thank you.

[Quickbeam, BSN, RN]

My childhood best friend is an OTR, master's prepared. She does very well, making about 90K a year, working part time for a school district and part time free lance. Her expertise is quite technical and she knows a whole lot more about movement than I do (and I'm rehab certified).

I asked her about this question. She said there are far fewer jobs for OTs than RNs or even PTs. Many of her OTR friend scramble for jobs if their current job ends. Most had to relocate. My friend's school district likes her work but in the past they have cut her hours back without warning.

In my work (community based, overseeing driving & health issues for my state) I get about a call a week from an OT looking to start up a business doing driving assessments. I always ask them why and it seems they are often looking for a steady source of income or a way to own their own business.