What is the average school counselor salary salary in 2025?

The average school counselor salary is $62,000 in 2025, encompassing a wide range of experience levels and roles. School counselors typically earn between $45,000 and $85,000, depending on various factors such as experience, location, and certifications. For entry-level positions, salaries range from $45,000 to $54,000, while those in mid-level roles can expect between $57,000 and $68,000. Senior professionals, boasting over ten years of experience, earn between $70,000 and $85,000. This salary data makes it clear that experience and expertise translate into higher compensation for school counselors.

How much do entry-level School Counselors make?

Entry-level School Counselors with 0-2 years of experience typically earn between $45,000 and $54,000. This salary range reflects the starting compensation that new graduates can expect as they begin their careers. It's crucial for entry-level counselors to develop their skills and gain experience, as this will lead to mid-level positions where salaries increase significantly to between $57,000 and $68,000. Thus, understanding the entry-level school counselor salary can help you set realistic expectations while also motivating your professional development.

What is the salary range for senior School Counselors?

Senior School Counselors with 6+ years of experience earn between $70,000 and $85,000. This salary range indicates the potential for experienced professionals to command higher pay as they take on more responsibilities and complexities within their roles. Senior school counselors often possess specialized skills, and their inputs can greatly impact the educational environment, leading to more significant salary offers. Overall, the senior school counselor salary reflects years of expertise and a deeper understanding of student needs and administrative responsibilities.

Which cities pay school counselor salarys the highest salaries?

San Francisco leads with an average school counselor salary of $82,000, which is significantly higher than the national average of $62,000. New York follows closely with a salary of $78,000 for school counselors. Austin, while being a growing tech hub, offers lower salaries averaging around $58,000. The difference in compensation across these cities can often be attributed to the cost of living, demand for school counselors, and funding for educational services in each area. Understanding these geographical disparities can help aspiring school counselors choose where to start their careers.

Do School Counselors need a degree to earn a high salary?

While having a degree is highly recommended, it's not always a strict requirement for school counselors to earn a competitive salary. School Counselors with a bachelor's degree might see initial salaries averaging $62,000, aligning with the national average. Without a degree, entry-level roles can still be accessible, but often at lower pay scales of $45,000 to $50,000. Hence, investing in education can significantly elevate your earning potential, especially as you move from entry-level to mid and senior roles where salaries rise to over $70,000.

How does experience affect school counselor salary salary?

Experience plays a crucial role in determining school counselor salary. Entry-level school counselor salaries range from $45,000 to $54,000 for those with 0-2 years of experience. With time and skill development, mid-level school counselors (4-10 years) earn between $57,000 and $68,000. Senior counselors, who have dedicated over 10 years to their careers, can expect salaries ranging from $70,000 to $85,000. These figures reflect how gained experience leads to the potential for higher salaries as you take on bigger roles and specialized tasks.

What skills increase school counselor salary salaries the most?

Certain skills can significantly boost school counselor salaries. High-value skills like crisis intervention and understanding child psychology can lead to higher salaries. Certifications in these areas can potentially increase your salary by around 10%. For instance, obtaining a certification in counseling can help you stand out in the job market and improve your earning potential as you move from an entry-level salary of $45,000 to over $70,000 in senior roles. As a school counselor, continuously developing your skills will be key to achieving a competitive salary.

How can I negotiate a higher school counselor salary salary?

To negotiate a higher school counselor salary, start by researching current market rates. For instance, knowing that the average school counselor salary is $62,000 can provide you leverage. When discussing your salary, present your qualifications, skills, and experience that resonate with the school or district's needs. If you have obtained certifications that enhance your value, mention these as factors contributing to your worth. With the average mid-level salary ranging from $57,000 to $68,000, demonstrating how your experience aligns with these figures will strengthen your position for negotiation.

What is the job outlook for School Counselors?

The job outlook for School Counselors is promising, with a projected annual growth rate of 8%. This growth reflects increasing recognition of the essential role counselors play in educational settings, particularly in addressing mental health issues and academic guidance. As a result, demand for skilled school counselors is anticipated to rise, offering more job opportunities and potentially higher salaries in the future. Understanding this positive trend can be reassuring for those entering the field, as it suggests a stable career path with room for advancement and salary growth.

How much do remote school counselor salarys earn?

Remote school counselors typically earn salaries lower than in-person positions, averaging around $58,000. While remote positions offer the advantage of flexibility and improved work-life balance, the trade-off often comes in the form of lower pay compared to top-paying cities like San Francisco, where salaries can reach $82,000. The appeal of remote work is also influenced by personal circumstances, and for some, the opportunity to work from home outweighs the potential pay differences.

What certifications boost school counselor salary salaries?

Certifications such as the National Certified Counselor (NCC) can significantly boost school counselor salaries. Obtaining certifications in specialized areas like trauma-informed care can lead to salary increases of around 10%. Schools increasingly value advanced skills and certifications, which can distinguish candidates in a competitive job market. For school counselors, investing in professional development through certifications is a pathway to enhanced salary potential and career progression.

What's the salary difference between junior and senior School Counselors?

The salary difference between junior and senior School Counselors is substantial. Junior School Counselors, with less than 3 years of experience, generally earn between $45,000 and $54,000, while senior professionals with over 10 years can earn between $70,000 and $85,000. This significant jump in salary highlights the value placed on experience and the enhanced roles that senior counselors take on, including leadership and mentorship, which can justify higher pay.

Which industries pay school counselor salarys the most?

Industries that typically pay school counselors the most include higher education and healthcare. Within these sectors, school counselors can command salaries nearing $70,000 and above, compared to public schools, where salaries often hover around the national average of $62,000. Differences in funding, resource allocation, and the demand for specialized support in these industries can contribute to discrepancies in compensation. For school counselors, understanding which industries offer the best salaries can guide career decisions.

School Counselor Salary in 2026: Complete Guide

Salary Overview

Average Salary

$62,000

Salary Range

$45,000 - $85,000

Annual Growth

Job Outlook

moderate

Last Updated: 2025-01

Salary by Experience Level

Experience Level	Years	Salary Range
Entry Level	0-3 years	$45,000 - $54,000
Mid Level	4-10 years	$57,000 - $68,000
Senior Level	10+ years	$70,000 - $85,000

Salary by Location

Location	Average Salary
San Francisco, CA	$82,000
New York, NY	$78,000
Austin, TX	$58,000
National Average	$62,000

Sources & Methodology

Data Sources:

•
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Official government salary data and employment statistics
•
Glassdoor Salary Database
Self-reported salary data from employees
•
Payscale Industry Reports
Compensation data and industry benchmarks
•
Indeed Salary Search
Job posting and salary data aggregation

Methodology:

Salary data is compiled from multiple authoritative sources including government statistics, employer-reported data, and verified employee submissions. All figures are cross-referenced and adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences. Data is updated quarterly to reflect current market conditions.

Last verified: January 2025

School Counselor Salary in 2026: Complete Guide

Sarah Chen

Salary by Experience Level

Salary by Location

Sources & Methodology

Data Sources:

Methodology:

Frequently Asked Questions

Salary Calculator

Build your job search toolkit