How much does a Direct Support Professional make?
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) play a vital role in helping people with disabilities. They earn a good salary for their important work. The average yearly salary for a DSP is around $35,870. This means most DSPs make between $25,000 and $49,000 each year. The salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer.
DSPs can expect to see their earnings increase with more experience. For example, those with a few years in the field may earn closer to the higher end of the salary range. Some DSPs also receive benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. These extras can make the job even more rewarding. DSPs who work in larger cities or for bigger organizations often see higher salaries. This is because the cost of living and the demand for services can be greater in these areas.
What are the highest paying cities for a Direct Support Professional?

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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $44,611
In Bend, working as a support professional offers a chance to help those in need while enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Companies like Central Oregon Community College and local non-profits provide many opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,265
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for support professionals. With tech giants like Apple and Google nearby, there are plenty of chances to grow. Local agencies focus on providing quality care to those in need.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $44,216
Portland is a vibrant city for support professionals. The city's strong community spirit makes it a rewarding place to work. Organizations like Oregon Health & Science University offer many job opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,711
Seattle provides a lively setting for support professionals. The city's tech industry and healthcare sector are booming. Companies like Providence and local non-profits offer diverse career paths.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $42,868
Spokane offers a supportive community for those in the support field. The city's strong healthcare system and local businesses provide many job opportunities. Working here means helping people in a caring environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $42,037
Santa Rosa is a great place for support professionals. The city's focus on community and health makes it a rewarding environment. Local agencies and non-profits offer many opportunities to make a difference.
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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $41,897
Eugene offers a peaceful setting for support professionals. The city's strong educational institutions and healthcare facilities provide many job opportunities. Working here means helping people in a supportive community.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $41,851
Anchorage provides a unique environment for support professionals. The city's diverse population and strong healthcare system offer many opportunities. Working here means helping people in a vibrant community.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $41,756
Boulder offers a healthy lifestyle for support professionals. The city's focus on wellness and education provides many job opportunities. Working here means helping people in a caring environment.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $41,525
Stockton provides a supportive community for support professionals. The city's strong healthcare system and local businesses offer many opportunities. Working here means helping people in a rewarding environment.
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What are the best companies a Direct Support Professional can work for?

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Jemcare
Average Salary: $65,111
Jemcare offers rewarding Direct Support Professional jobs. They focus on helping people with disabilities. They operate in multiple states, including California and New York. Their programs aim to support independence and community living.
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TIDES LLC
Average Salary: $61,921
TIDES LLC provides excellent Direct Support Professional positions. They work with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. They have locations in Indiana and Ohio. TIDES LLC emphasizes person-centered care and community integration.
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Family Service of Rhode Island
Average Salary: $53,840
Family Service of Rhode Island offers Direct Support Professional jobs with a focus on family and community support. They serve Rhode Island residents. They provide services that help individuals live independently and improve their quality of life.
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Worldwide Travel Staffing, Limited
Average Salary: $52,307
Worldwide Travel Staffing, Limited offers Direct Support Professional jobs with travel opportunities. They serve clients in various locations. They focus on providing quality care and support to individuals with disabilities.
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A & T Healthcare, LLC
Average Salary: $51,925
A & T Healthcare, LLC provides Direct Support Professional jobs with a focus on personalized care. They operate in several states, including Texas and Florida. They aim to support individuals with disabilities in their homes and communities.
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Ocean State Behavioral
Average Salary: $51,892
Ocean State Behavioral offers Direct Support Professional jobs with a focus on behavioral health. They serve Rhode Island residents. They provide support to individuals with mental health and substance use disorders.
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Telecare Corporation
Average Salary: $51,794
Telecare Corporation offers Direct Support Professional jobs with a focus on community-based care. They operate in multiple states, including California and New York. They provide services to support individuals with disabilities and mental health needs.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $51,081
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers Direct Support Professional jobs with a focus on public services. They serve residents of Massachusetts. They provide support to individuals with disabilities and promote independence.
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Johnson County Kansas
Average Salary: $50,645
Johnson County Kansas offers Direct Support Professional jobs with a focus on community care. They serve residents of Johnson County, Kansas. They provide support to individuals with disabilities and promote community integration.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $50,337
The State of Washington offers Direct Support Professional jobs with a focus on public health. They serve residents of Washington. They provide support to individuals with disabilities and promote independence and community living.
How to earn more as a Direct Support Professional?
Becoming a Direct Support Professional (DSP) can lead to a rewarding career. DSPs help people with disabilities live more independently. They also earn a good salary. To earn more, consider these key factors:
First, gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. DSPs who work longer and learn more skills often earn more. Second, getting additional certifications can help. Certifications in first aid, CPR, or specialized care can make a DSP more valuable. Third, seeking promotions can increase earnings. Many organizations offer higher pay for roles with more responsibility. Fourth, working in higher-demand areas can lead to better pay. Urban areas or specialized care settings often offer higher wages. Lastly, negotiating salary can make a difference. Knowing the market rate and discussing it with employers can lead to better offers.
DSPs can increase their earnings by focusing on these factors. More experience, certifications, promotions, and strategic location choices all play a role. Effective negotiation can also lead to higher pay.
- Gain more experience
- Get additional certifications
- Seek promotions
- Work in higher-demand areas
- Negotiate salary



