School Counselor Salary (2025)
School counselors support student academic and personal development.
Salary Range
Median: $60,510 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for School Counselors
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $86,000 | +42% |
| California | $84,000 | +39% |
| New York | $77,000 | +27% |
| Alaska | $76,000 | +26% |
| Massachusetts | $76,000 | +26% |
| New Jersey | $73,000 | +21% |
| Connecticut | $71,000 | +17% |
| Washington | $70,000 | +16% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a School Counselor
Most School Counselor positions require: Master's in School Counseling. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
School Counselor Salary by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average School Counselor salary?
The median School Counselor salary is $60,510 per year, which works out to approximately $29/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level School Counselor make?
Entry-level School Counselors typically earn around $42,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior School Counselor's salary?
Experienced School Counselors can earn up to $85,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a School Counselor?
Most School Counselor positions require: Master's in School Counseling.