Counselors, Social Workers, and Community Service Specialists: $58,300 Median Salary in 2024
The median salary for counselors, social workers, and other community and social service specialists is $58,300 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $28 an hour. The typical range runs from $38,090 at the 10th percentile to $97,610 at the 90th, meaning half of these 2.57 million workers earn between those figures.
How much Counselors, Social Workers, and Other Community and Social Service Specialists earn
The BLS reports the mean annual wage for this broad occupation group is $63,400, or about $28 per hour. The median—the midpoint where half earn more and half earn less—is $58,300. The lowest 10 percent earn under $38,090, while the top 10 percent take home more than $97,610. Wages vary by specialty (e.g., substance abuse vs. marriage and family therapy) and employer type (government vs. nonprofit).
Pay by state
State-level data is not available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for this broad occupational group. However, wages tend to be higher in states with higher cost of living and stronger union presence, such as California and New York. Lower-paying states often have lower living costs and a greater share of rural areas. Check the BLS website for state-specific figures by detailed occupation.
How to become Counselors, Social Workers, and Other Community and Social Service Specialist
The path varies by specialization, but most roles require at least a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. Many jobs—especially clinical counselor or social work positions—require a master's degree and state licensure. Minimum requirements: bachelor's degree for entry-level jobs like case management or community outreach; master's degree plus 2,000–4,000 hours of supervised experience for clinical licenses. Licensure typically involves passing a state exam and ongoing continuing education.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or human services.
- Gain field experience through internships or entry-level roles (e.g., case aide).
- For clinical roles: complete a master's degree in social work (MSW) or counseling, accumulate supervised clinical hours, and pass a state licensing exam.
- Maintain certification or licensure through continuing education credits.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for this combined group. However, employment of social workers and counselors individually is expected to grow faster than average due to increased demand for mental health and substance abuse treatment, as well as services for aging populations. The large employment base—over 2.5 million workers—means thousands of openings will arise each year from retirements and turnover.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for counselors and social workers?
The median annual wage for Counselors, Social Workers, and Other Community and Social Service Specialists is $58,300, according to BLS data.
What are the highest-paying states for this occupation?
Our data doesn't include state-level figures for this broad group, but highest wages are typically in states like California, New York, and Massachusetts. Check the BLS site for specific occupations.
How many people work in this field?
The BLS estimates 2,573,560 people work as Counselors, Social Workers, or Community Service Specialists nationwide as of May 2024.
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 Counselors, Social Workers, and Other Community and Social Service Specialists data.