Social and Community Service Managers salary 2025: $80,390 median, top earners $132,260
The median annual salary for Social and Community Service Managers hit $80,390 in 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $39 an hour — a solid middle-class wage for professionals who coordinate programs that help people access food, housing, healthcare, and other social services. The typical pay range spans from $53,150 at the 10th percentile to $132,260 at the 90th, meaning top managers can earn more than double the median. With about 209,330 people employed in the occupation nationwide, these roles are concentrated in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and social assistance groups.
How much Social and Community Service Managers earn
The national median salary for Social and Community Service Managers is $80,390, with a mean wage of $88,880. Half of all workers earn between roughly $59,000 and $105,000. Those just starting out — say, recent graduates in entry-level coordinator positions — typically earn around $53,150 or less. Experienced directors at large agencies or in high-cost metro areas can pull in $132,260 or more.
Pay varies widely by industry. Managers working in local government (excluding schools and hospitals) earn a median of $89,100, while those in individual and family services median around $74,500. The top-paying sector is the federal executive branch, where median pay exceeds $100,000.
Pay by state
Location matters more for this career than almost any other factor. In the District of Columbia, the mean annual wage for Social and Community Service Managers is $106,700 — the highest in the country. Washington state follows at $103,000, then Alaska at $98,370, Colorado at $97,440, and New York at $95,980. If you’re willing to move, those states offer premiums of $15,000 to $26,000 above the national average.
On the lower end, Nevada pays a mean of $65,570, West Virginia $62,060, and Arkansas the least at $56,100. That’s nearly half the salary of a D.C.-based manager doing similar work. Cost of living accounts for some of that gap, but not all.
How to become Social and Community Service Manager
Most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree, typically in social work, public administration, psychology, or a related field. A master’s degree — especially an MSW or MPA — is common for those who want to advance to senior roles or manage large programs.
Experience in the social services sector is the real entry requirement. Many managers start as caseworkers, program coordinators, or community outreach specialists, then move up after several years. Some states or local agencies require licensure (e.g., as a licensed clinical social worker) if the role involves direct clinical supervision. But for general program management, certification is voluntary. The Certified Social Services Manager (CSSM) credential from the National Association of Social Workers can boost job prospects.
Typical path: earn a bachelor’s degree, gain 3-5 years of direct social service experience, then pursue a management role. About one-third of positions require a master’s degree, according to BLS data.
- Bachelor's degree in social work, public administration, or similar field
- 3-5 years of experience in social services or program coordination
- Optional: master's degree for higher-level or clinical management roles
- State licensure may be required for roles with direct client therapy
- Consider CSSM certification for formal credential
Job outlook
Employment of Social and Community Service Managers is projected to grow 6.4% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 18,600 job openings each year, mostly to replace workers who retire or move into other fields.
The growth is driven by an aging population that needs more social services, continued demand for substance abuse and mental health programs, and expansion of community-based care. Nonprofits and government agencies will be the primary hiring sectors, though private healthcare companies and insurance firms are also adding managers to coordinate patient-care programs.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Social and Community Service Manager do?
They coordinate and supervise social service and community outreach programs that help people access food, housing, healthcare, employment assistance, and counseling. Typical duties include managing staff, budgets, and grant applications; evaluating program effectiveness; and representing the organization to the public.
How many hours do Social and Community Service Managers work?
Most work full time, about 40 hours per week. Evening or weekend hours are common in agencies that offer 24/7 services, like shelters or crisis hotlines. Nonprofit managers may occasionally work longer hours during grant cycles or fundraisers.
Is Social and Community Service Manager a good career?
Yes, if you want a stable job making a meaningful impact. The median salary of $80,390 is well above the national median for all occupations ($48,060). Job growth is solid at 6.4%, and the work offers variety — no two days are the same. The downside: stress from tight budgets, high caseloads, and emotionally demanding client needs.
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 Social and Community Service Managers data.