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, which reflects their important work. The average yearly salary for a DSP is around $35,967. This means most DSPs make close to this amount each year. Some DSPs earn more, while others earn less, but this average gives a good idea of what to expect.
The salary for DSPs can vary based on several factors. These include experience, location, and the type of employer. DSPs with more experience often earn higher salaries. Those in urban areas or with specialized skills may also see higher pay. For example, DSPs working in certain states or with specific organizations might earn more than the average. This variety in salary shows the value placed on different skills and experiences in the field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Direct Support Professional?

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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $44,725
In Bend, working as a support professional offers a chance to help individuals in a vibrant community. The area is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Companies like Central Oregon Community College provide opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,323
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for support professionals. The tech-driven city provides many job opportunities. Companies like Stanford Health Care are prominent in the area.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $44,263
Portland is a great place for support professionals. The city values community and offers many job opportunities. Companies like Kaiser Permanente are known employers.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,954
Seattle provides a lively setting for support professionals. The city's tech industry offers many job opportunities. Companies like Providence Health & Services are major employers.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $42,934
Spokane offers a supportive community for professionals. The city's growing economy provides many job opportunities. Companies like Providence St. Joseph Health are key employers.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $42,196
Santa Rosa offers a welcoming environment for support professionals. The city's strong community spirit makes it a great place to work. Companies like Kaiser Permanente are major employers.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $41,992
Anchorage provides a unique setting for support professionals. The city's outdoor lifestyle offers many job opportunities. Companies like Alaska Regional Hospital are key employers.
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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $41,972
Eugene offers a vibrant community for support professionals. The city's focus on education and culture provides many job opportunities. Companies like PeaceHealth are major employers.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $41,780
Stockton offers a supportive environment for professionals. The city's growing economy provides many job opportunities. Companies like Kaiser Permanente are key employers.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $41,756
Boulder offers a healthy lifestyle for support professionals. The city's outdoor activities and education focus provide many job opportunities. Companies like Boulder Community Health are major employers.
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What are the best companies a Direct Support Professional can work for?

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Jemcare
Average Salary: $64,783
Jemcare offers rewarding Direct Support Professional jobs. They focus on providing care for individuals in need. They operate in various locations, ensuring they can offer support where it is most needed.
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Family Service of Rhode Island
Average Salary: $53,840
Family Service of Rhode Island provides excellent opportunities for Direct Support Professionals. They work to support individuals and families in Rhode Island. Their programs are well-regarded and offer a supportive work environment.
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WAR Ministry Corporation
Average Salary: $53,273
WAR Ministry Corporation offers meaningful Direct Support Professional jobs. They focus on helping individuals in need. They operate in several locations, providing diverse opportunities for professionals.
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Worldwide Travel Staffing, Limited
Average Salary: $52,516
Worldwide Travel Staffing, Limited provides Direct Support Professional jobs with competitive pay. They offer travel opportunities, allowing professionals to work in different locations. Their programs are designed to support individuals effectively.
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A & T Healthcare, LLC
Average Salary: $51,925
A & T Healthcare, LLC offers rewarding Direct Support Professional jobs. They focus on providing care for individuals in various settings. They operate in multiple locations, offering diverse opportunities for professionals.
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Ocean State Behavioral
Average Salary: $51,899
Ocean State Behavioral provides excellent Direct Support Professional jobs. They focus on supporting individuals with behavioral needs. They operate in Rhode Island, offering a supportive work environment.
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Telecare Corporation
Average Salary: $51,477
Telecare Corporation offers rewarding Direct Support Professional jobs. They focus on providing care for individuals in various settings. They operate in multiple locations, offering diverse opportunities for professionals.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $51,081
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers Direct Support Professional jobs with competitive pay. They focus on supporting individuals in various settings. They operate throughout Massachusetts, providing diverse opportunities for professionals.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $50,578
The State of Washington offers rewarding Direct Support Professional jobs. They focus on providing care for individuals in various settings. They operate throughout Washington, offering diverse opportunities for professionals.
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Johnson County Kansas
Average Salary: $50,491
Johnson County Kansas offers Direct Support Professional jobs with competitive pay. They focus on supporting individuals in various settings. They operate in Johnson County, Kansas, providing diverse opportunities for professionals.
How to earn more as a Direct Support Professional?
Becoming a Direct Support Professional (DSP) offers a rewarding career path. It also provides opportunities to earn more. DSPs can increase their income through various strategies. These strategies focus on skill development, experience, and career advancement. By taking proactive steps, DSPs can enhance their earning potential.
Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as a DSP:
- Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications. These can include CPR, First Aid, and specialized training in areas like autism or mental health. Certifications demonstrate expertise and can lead to higher pay.
- Experience: Gain experience in different settings. Working with diverse populations can make a DSP more versatile. It can also open up higher-paying positions.
- Education: Pursue higher education. Degrees in social work or related fields can lead to better job opportunities. They can also result in higher salaries.
- Networking: Build a professional network. Attend industry events and join professional organizations. Networking can lead to job opportunities and salary negotiations.
- Performance: Excel in job performance. Consistently deliver high-quality care. Seek feedback and strive for continuous improvement. Exceptional performance can lead to raises and promotions.



