Community Health Workers Salary Guide 2025: Median $51,850, 11% Growth
The median Community Health Worker earns $51,850 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ most recent data. That works out to about $25 per hour, with the typical range running from $38,810 at the 10th percentile to $77,180 at the 90th. The occupation employs 61,660 people nationwide and is projected to grow much faster than average through 2034.
How much Community Health Workers earn
The national median salary for Community Health Workers is $51,850, with a mean wage of $56,180. Half of workers earn between roughly $39,000 and $77,000, though entry-level positions can start lower and experienced roles in high-paying settings can exceed that range.
Pay varies significantly by industry. Workers in state government tend to earn higher wages, while those in individual and family services often earn closer to the median. The highest concentration of these workers is in ambulatory healthcare services and local government.
Experience and certification also affect earnings. Many employers offer wage bumps for workers who complete the Certified Community Health Worker (CCHW) credential, which is recognized in over 20 states.
- 10th percentile: $38,810
- Median: $51,850
- 90th percentile: $77,180
- Mean annual wage: $56,180
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying state for Community Health Workers is New Hampshire, with an average annual wage of $66,680. The District of Columbia ($62,510), North Dakota ($59,610), Colorado ($59,260), and Hawaii ($58,450) round out the top five.
At the other end of the spectrum, the lowest-paying states are Tennessee ($42,310), Mississippi ($39,520), and West Virginia ($37,950). These figures reflect cost of living differences and state-level funding for public health programs.
How to become Community Health Worker
Most Community Health Workers enter the field with a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Some employers prefer or require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in public health, social work, or a related field, but it’s not universal.
Certification is increasingly important. Many states offer a voluntary Certified Community Health Worker (CCHW) credential that requires completing an approved training program and passing an exam. Some states, like Michigan and Texas, have their own certification processes.
The typical path: complete a state-approved training program (often 80-160 hours), then pass a certification exam. After certification, many workers start in entry-level roles at community health centers, hospitals, or nonprofit organizations, where they receive additional on-the-job training.
Job outlook
Employment of Community Health Workers is projected to grow 11.3% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 7,800 job openings each year over the decade, driven by a push to reduce healthcare costs and improve access to preventive care.
Demand is especially strong in rural and underserved urban areas, where community health workers act as a bridge between residents and medical services. Federal and state initiatives to address chronic disease and maternal health are also fueling growth.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Community Health Worker make per hour?
Based on BLS data, the median hourly wage is about $25. The mean hourly wage is $27.01.
Do you need a degree to be a Community Health Worker?
Typically only a high school diploma is required, though some employers prefer an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Many states require or encourage certification through an approved training program.
Is Community Health Worker a growing career?
Yes. The BLS projects 11.3% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 7,800 openings per year.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Community Health Workers data.