Top States for Occupational Therapist Jobs in 2026
The demand for occupational therapists is climbing. An aging population, expanded access to rehabilitation services, and a nationwide push to address workforce shortages have created strong hiring conditions across multiple states. For OTs considering travel OT jobs or a first permanent placement, location matters more than most new grads realize—it shapes caseload variety, mentorship access, and long-term salary trajectory.
Here's a closer look at five states leading the way in 2026.
Which States Offer the Best Occupational Therapist Job Opportunities in 2026?
California: Large Market, Competitive Pay
California holds one of the largest occupational therapy job markets in the country. High population density, a broad network of hospitals, outpatient clinics, and school districts, and strong union protections all contribute to competitive salaries. Urban centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco offer specialized settings, pediatric clinics, hand therapy practices, and acute care units, that give OTs the chance to develop niche expertise early in their careers.
Minnesota: Strong Healthcare Infrastructure
Minnesota consistently ranks among the top states for healthcare quality, and that reputation translates into stable OT employment. The state's robust system of integrated health networks, including major systems in the Twin Cities, creates steady demand across inpatient, outpatient, and community health settings. For OTs who value structured mentorship and
institutional support, Minnesota is a strong option.
Washington: Growing Demand and Quality of Life
Washington state combines a growing healthcare sector with a high quality of life that makes it a popular destination for travel occupational therapist jobs. Demand is rising across home health, skilled nursing facilities, and pediatric outpatient settings. Proximity to both urban hubs like Seattle and rural communities means OTs can choose their preferred setting without sacrificing opportunity.
Texas: High Volume Across Diverse Settings
Texas offers sheer volume. With one of the fastest-growing populations in the country, the state's need for occupational therapy services spans urban hospitals, rural health clinics, school-based programs, and long-term care facilities. OTs who want broad clinical exposure, and the chance to build a strong caseload quickly, will find Texas well-suited to those goals.
Montana: Rural Opportunity and Travel OT Appeal
Montana may not be the first state that comes to mind, but it has become a top pick for travel OT jobs in 2026. Rural healthcare shortages have driven demand, and many facilities offer competitive compensation packages to attract qualified OTs. For clinicians who want wide-open spaces alongside meaningful caseloads, Montana delivers on both fronts.
What Should New Graduate OTs Know Before Starting Their First Assignment?
Starting out, whether in a permanent role or through travel occupational therapist jobs, comes with a learning curve. A few clinical habits make a significant difference from day one.
- Build confidence gradually. Begin with straightforward exercises and progress from there. A small early win boosts patient morale and helps you identify movement compensations that are harder to spot in complex tasks.
- Plan your sessions ahead. Grouping exercises by location and equipment saves patient energy and keeps sessions efficient. Think two or three steps ahead.
- Know your treatment options. When one approach isn't working, having a broad repertoire of alternatives keeps care moving forward, especially important when travel OT jobs place you in unfamiliar facilities with different equipment.
How Does AMN Healthcare Support OTs Pursuing Travel Therapy Jobs?
AMN Healthcare connects occupational therapists with travel OT jobs across high-demand states, including all five listed above. Through AMN Healthcare, OTs gain access to a wide range of assignments, dedicated recruiter support, and resources designed to help new graduates and experienced clinicians navigate each placement with confidence. Flexible staffing options mean you can tailor your career path, whether that's back-to-back travel assignments, a single placement in a new state, or a longer-term contract while you evaluate permanent options.
Build Your OT Career with the Right Foundation
Strategic location choices in 2026 can set the trajectory for an entire career. The five states above offer a mix of high volume, specialized settings, rural experience, and competitive pay, each valuable for different reasons depending on your goals.
