Marriage and Family Therapist Salary Guide 2025: Median $66,940, Fast Growth Ahead
The median annual salary for Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) is $66,940, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean hourly wage works out to about $32.50, with a typical range from $44,650 (10th percentile) to $123,730 (90th percentile). That means experienced therapists in high-paying settings can earn well into six figures.
About 66,740 MFTs are employed nationwide, and the field is projected to grow 12.6% from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 7,700 openings each year, many from therapists retiring or changing careers.
How much Marriage and Family Therapists earn
Across the U.S., MFTs earned a median salary of $66,940 in 2024. The lowest 10% made $44,650 or less, while the top 10% brought home $123,730 or more.
Several factors affect pay: location, years of experience, and work setting. Those in private practice or outpatient mental health centers often earn more than those in schools or state agencies.
Pay by state
Where you work makes a huge difference. Hawaii tops the list with an average annual salary of $141,960 — more than double the national mean. Other high-paying states include New Jersey ($92,150), Georgia ($91,550), Oregon ($91,520), and Connecticut ($86,250).
On the lower end, MFTs in Texas averaged $46,300, in South Dakota $44,870, and in Wisconsin just $37,870. These figures are state averages, so individual salaries can vary within a state based on city and experience.
How to become Marriage and Family Therapist
To become a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), you typically need a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field like clinical psychology. Most programs involve two to three years of coursework plus a supervised clinical internship.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, or a related field (or complete prerequisite courses).
- Complete a COAMFTE-accredited master's program in marriage and family therapy (usually 2–3 years).
- Accumulate 2,000–4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience (varies by state).
- Pass the national MFT exam (AMFTRB).
- Apply for state licensure (title varies: LMFT, LCMFT, etc.).
- Renew license with continuing education credits.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of marriage and family therapists will grow 12.6% between 2024 and 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 7,700 job openings are expected each year over the decade.
Demand is driven by a growing recognition of the role mental health plays in overall well-being, plus expansion of insurance coverage for therapy services. Couples and family therapy is increasingly sought after for issues like divorce, addiction, and child behavioral problems.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for Marriage and Family Therapists?
Hawaii pays the highest average salary at $141,960, followed by New Jersey ($92,150) and Georgia ($91,550).
How long does it take to become a Marriage and Family Therapist?
Typically 6–8 years after high school: 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 2–3 years for a master's, then 1–2 years of supervised experience for licensure.
Is the demand for Marriage and Family Therapists growing?
Yes. The BLS projects 12.6% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 7,700 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 Marriage and Family Therapists data.