Speech-Language Pathologist Salary 2025: $97,870 Median, 15% Job Growth
The median Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) earns $97,870 per year, or about $47 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2023 data. The middle 50% of SLPs make between $62,900 and $134,160, with the top 10% exceeding $134,160. These figures make SLP one of the stronger six-figure careers in healthcare, especially given that entry-level salaries start near $63,000.
How much Speech-Language Pathologists earn
The mean annual wage for SLPs is $98,170, very close to the median. That $47/hour rate is based on a standard 40-hour week. Pay varies by setting: hospitals and nursing facilities tend to run higher than schools, though schools often provide better schedules and benefits.
The BLS defines the typical range as the 10th to 90th percentile. At the low end, 10% of SLPs earn $62,900 or less — often new graduates in school settings. At the high end, 10% earn $134,160 or more, typically experienced clinicians in medical settings or private practice.
Pay by state
California pays SLPs the most, with an average annual wage of $118,970. Colorado is next at $110,750, followed by D.C. ($109,380), Washington ($105,550), and Nevada ($104,510). These states tend to have higher cost of living, but the salary premium is substantial.
The lowest-paying states are Alabama ($73,660), Louisiana ($69,610), and South Dakota ($65,680). Even in lower-paying states, SLP salaries are above many other education and health roles. Use the BLS salary tool to check your specific metro area.
How to become a Speech-Language Pathologist
You need at least a master's degree in speech-language pathology from a program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA). Typical admission requires a bachelor's in communication sciences and disorders or related field, plus prerequisite courses.
- 1. Earn a bachelor's degree (often in CSD or a related major).
- 2. Complete a CAA-accredited master's program – usually 2 years full-time including clinical practicum.
- 3. Pass the Praxis exam in speech-language pathology.
- 4. Complete a supervised clinical fellowship (CF) – typically 9 months full-time, about 1,260 hours.
- 5. Apply for state licensure; requirements vary but all states require the Praxis and CF.
- 6. Optional: earn the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) from ASHA, which may boost employability.
Job outlook
Employment of SLPs is projected to grow 15% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 13,300 openings each year over the decade, mostly due to retirements and expanding healthcare needs for aging populations and children with speech disorders.
The 15% growth rate is nearly three times the average for all jobs (5%). Demand is especially high in schools and rehab settings. SLPs with bilingual skills or expertise in swallowing disorders are in even stronger demand.
Frequently asked questions
Do Speech-Language Pathologists make good money?
Yes. The median annual salary is $97,870, which is about double the national median for all occupations. The top 10% earn over $134,000.
How long does it take to become a Speech-Language Pathologist?
Typically 6–7 years: a 4-year bachelor's plus a 2-year master's, then a 9-month clinical fellowship before full licensure.
What is the job growth for Speech-Language Pathologists?
The BLS projects 15% growth from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average. About 13,300 new openings are expected 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 Speech-Language Pathologists data.