Social Workers, All Other Salary 2025: $71,900 Median, $115,610 Top Earners
The median pay for Social Workers, All Other is $71,900 per year, according to the latest BLS data. That equates to roughly $35 an hour. The middle 50% earn between $43,620 and $115,610, with top earners in Nevada pulling in over $121,830. This occupation covers a broad range of social work roles not specifically classified elsewhere—think case managers, community outreach workers, and policy advocates.
How much Social Workers, All Other earn
The national median salary sits at $71,900, with an average (mean) of $75,910. Hourly rates average about $35. The bottom 10% earn less than $43,620, while the top 10% exceed $115,610. Your actual pay will depend on your employer, experience, and location. Government and healthcare settings tend to pay above the median; nonprofit and community-based roles may fall lower.
Pay by state
Where you work has a huge impact on your paycheck. The five highest-paying states are Nevada ($121,830), Hawaii ($116,130), Rhode Island ($111,590), New Hampshire ($103,710), and Washington ($102,520). On the low end, Montana ($51,650), Tennessee ($51,460), and Arkansas ($47,790) trail the pack. If you're willing to move, targeting high-paying states can boost your earnings by 50% or more.
How to become Social Workers, All Other
The path depends on your target role. Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) or a related field like psychology or sociology. Clinical roles or certain supervisory positions may demand a master's in social work (MSW) and state licensure (e.g., LSW, LCSW). Typical steps include:
1. Earn a degree: BSW for entry-level case management; MSW for clinical work.
2. Complete supervised experience: often 2-3 years post-graduation for license.
3. Pass state licensing exam: required for clinical practice.
4. Maintain credentials through continuing education.
- Earn a BSW or MSW from an accredited program
- Complete required supervised hours (varies by state)
- Pass the ASWB exam for your license level
- Apply for jobs in child welfare, healthcare, or mental health
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for Social Workers, All Other to grow 3.9% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 7,000 job openings each year. Many of these openings come from workers retiring or leaving the field. Demand will be driven by ongoing needs in mental health, substance abuse treatment, and aging services. Currently, there are 62,930 people employed in this category.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average hourly wage for Social Workers, All Other?
The mean hourly wage is about $35, based on the BLS mean annual salary of $75,910.
Which state pays Social Workers, All Other the most?
Nevada pays the highest, with an average salary of $121,830 per year. Hawaii and Rhode Island are next at $116,130 and $111,590.
Is Social Workers, All Other a growing occupation?
Yes, the occupation is projected to grow 3.9% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average, with about 7,000 openings each 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 Social Workers, All Other data.