Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors Salary 2025: Median $64,330
The median salary for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors is $64,330, with a mean of $71,430 (about $31 per hour). The typical range runs from $45,020 at the 10th percentile to $104,770 at the 90th. These figures come from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' most recent OEWS data, reflecting national numbers in 2025.
How much Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors earn
Overall, the median wage lands at $64,330, meaning half earn more and half less. The average (mean) is $71,430. The pay distribution shows a wide spread: the lowest 10% make $45,020 or less, while the top 10% earn over $104,770.
Pay varies by setting. Those in elementary and secondary schools often earn less than counterparts in colleges or government. Employers in professional, scientific, and technical services tend to pay the highest wages.
- Median annual salary: $64,330
- Mean annual salary: $71,430
- Hourly mean wage: $31.01
- 10th percentile: $45,020
- 90th percentile: $104,770
Pay by state
Highest-paying states: California ($86,500), Alaska ($82,900), Washington ($82,670), District of Columbia ($80,470), and Massachusetts ($79,930). In these states, cost of living is generally high, but wages offset it.
Lower-paying states: Florida ($53,140), Oklahoma ($52,040), and South Dakota ($51,830). These figures are about $11,000–$13,000 below the national median. Note that local demand and school funding play major roles.
How to become Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisor
To enter the field, you typically need a master's degree in school counseling, career counseling, or a related field. Most states require a license or certification for public school positions—often a school counselor credential. For college and private practice roles, a license as a professional counselor (LPC) or similar is common.
Steps include: earn a bachelor's degree (often in psychology, education, or social work); complete a master's program accredited by CACREP or similar; accumulate supervised experience (usually 2,000–3,000 hours); and pass a state exam. Many positions also require a background check. For K–12 school jobs, teaching experience can be helpful but isn't always required.
- Earn a bachelor's in a relevant field (psychology, education, social work)
- Complete a master's in counseling or school counseling (CACREP accreditation preferred)
- Accumulate supervised clinical hours (2,000–3,000 typical)
- Pass state licensing exam(s) and apply for credential
- Renew license periodically with continuing education
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 3.5% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 31,000 openings each year, mostly due to retirements and workers leaving the field. Current employment stands at 353,310.
Demand will be driven by continued need for counseling services in schools and colleges. Rising awareness of mental health and career planning also supports steady hiring.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for educational, guidance, and career counselors?
California, with an average salary of $86,500. Alaska, Washington, D.C., and Massachusetts also pay above $79,000.
Do I need a master's degree to become a school counselor?
Yes, almost all states require a master's degree in counseling or a closely related field for licensure in public schools. Some private schools may accept a bachelor's plus experience.
How long does it take to become a licensed counselor?
Typically 6–8 years: 4 years for a bachelor's, 2–3 for a master's, then 1–2 years of supervised experience before licensure.
What is the job growth rate for this occupation?
3.5% projected growth from 2024 to 2034, about average. About 31,000 new openings per year.
What is the typical salary range?
Half earn between $45,020 and $104,770. The middle 50% fall in this range, with the median at $64,330.
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 Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors data.