How much does a Direct Support Professional make?
A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides essential care and support to individuals who need help with daily activities. This role is both rewarding and important. DSPs earn a competitive salary that reflects their dedication and the critical nature of their work. The average yearly salary for a DSP is around $35,774. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer.
DSPs can expect to earn between $25,000 and $49,000 annually. The salary range shows that there are opportunities for growth and advancement. Many DSPs start at the lower end of the scale and can move up with more experience and additional certifications. Some employers also offer bonuses and benefits, which can increase the overall compensation. This range makes the DSP role attractive to those looking for a stable and fulfilling career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Direct Support Professional?
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $44,563
In Bend, working as a support professional offers a chance to help those in need while enjoying the outdoors. The city's scenic environment makes it a great place to live and work. Companies like Central Oregon Community Action and The Arc of Central Oregon offer many opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,263
San Jose provides a dynamic environment for support professionals. The tech-driven city offers many job opportunities with companies like Sevita and Easterseals. The city's vibrant culture and job market make it an attractive place to work.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $44,136
Portland is known for its progressive values and strong community support. Working here means helping people in a city that values diversity and inclusion. Companies such as Ability Central and The Arc of Oregon offer many roles.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,688
Seattle offers a mix of urban and natural beauty for support professionals. The city's strong economy and job market provide many opportunities. Companies like Ability Central and The Arc of Washington offer various positions.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $42,784
Spokane provides a smaller city feel with a strong sense of community. Working here means helping people in a supportive environment. Companies like Ability Central and The Arc of Washington offer many roles.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $41,954
Santa Rosa offers a relaxed lifestyle with a strong community focus. Working here means helping people in a supportive environment. Companies like Ability Central and The Arc of Sonoma offer many roles.
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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $41,829
Eugene offers a vibrant college town atmosphere. Working here means helping people in a supportive environment. Companies like Ability Central and The Arc of Oregon offer many roles.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $41,554
Anchorage provides a unique environment with stunning natural beauty. Working here means helping people in a supportive environment. Companies like Ability Central and The Arc of Alaska offer many roles.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $41,535
Boulder offers a healthy lifestyle with a strong community focus. Working here means helping people in a supportive environment. Companies like Ability Central and The Arc of Colorado offer many roles.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $41,115
Stockton provides a diverse community with many opportunities. Working here means helping people in a supportive environment. Companies like Ability Central and The Arc of San Joaquin offer many roles.
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What are the best companies a Direct Support Professional can work for?
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Jemcare
Average Salary: $65,091
Jemcare offers a rewarding career for Direct Support Professionals. They provide services in various locations, including New York and California. Jemcare focuses on helping individuals with disabilities lead independent lives.
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TIDES LLC
Average Salary: $60,428
TIDES LLC is a leading provider of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They operate in states like Pennsylvania and Florida. Their DSPs play a key role in supporting clients' daily activities and personal growth.
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State of Maryland
Average Salary: $56,789
The State of Maryland offers competitive salaries for Direct Support Professionals. They provide services across the state. Maryland's DSPs work in community settings, helping individuals achieve their goals.
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Family Service of Rhode Island
Average Salary: $53,840
Family Service of Rhode Island offers a supportive environment for Direct Support Professionals. They operate throughout Rhode Island. Their DSPs assist individuals with disabilities in various community settings.
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A & T Healthcare, LLC
Average Salary: $53,555
A & T Healthcare, LLC provides services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They operate in states like Texas and Ohio. Their DSPs focus on helping clients live fulfilling lives.
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Worldwide Travel Staffing, Limited
Average Salary: $52,307
Worldwide Travel Staffing, Limited offers travel opportunities for Direct Support Professionals. They operate in multiple states. Their DSPs provide essential support to individuals in various locations.
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Telecare Corporation
Average Salary: $52,248
Telecare Corporation offers a variety of services for people with disabilities. They operate in states like California and New York. Their DSPs work in community settings to support clients' needs.
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Ocean State Behavioral
Average Salary: $51,667
Ocean State Behavioral provides services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They operate in Rhode Island. Their DSPs support clients in achieving their personal goals.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $50,836
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers a supportive environment for Direct Support Professionals. They provide services across the state. Their DSPs assist individuals with disabilities in various community settings.
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YMCA Of Greater Seattle
Average Salary: $50,618
The YMCA Of Greater Seattle offers a rewarding career for Direct Support Professionals. They operate in Washington. Their DSPs support individuals with disabilities in achieving their personal goals.
How to earn more as a Direct Support Professional?
Becoming a Direct Support Professional (DSP) can be a rewarding career. It offers many opportunities to grow and earn more. DSPs can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. These areas can help improve job performance and open up higher-paying opportunities.
Here are some factors that can help a DSP earn more:
- Get Certified: Earning certifications can make a DSP more valuable. Certifications show that a DSP has the skills and knowledge needed for the job. They can lead to higher pay and better job opportunities.
- Gain Experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. DSPs who work longer and gain more skills can earn more. Experience also makes it easier to move into higher-paying positions.
- Specialize in a Field: Specializing in areas like mental health or autism can lead to higher pay. DSPs who focus on these areas often have more job opportunities and can earn more.
- Seek Advanced Roles: Taking on roles with more responsibility, like a team leader, can lead to higher pay. These roles often require more skills and experience.
- Continue Education: DSPs who continue their education can earn more. Taking courses or getting degrees in related fields can help a DSP move into higher-paying jobs.
