How much does a Genetic Counselor make?
Genetic counselors play a vital role in the healthcare field. They help patients understand their genetic risks and provide guidance on related health decisions. This important work comes with a good salary. The average yearly salary for a genetic counselor is about $85,190. This means many people in this job earn a fair amount each year.
If you look at the salary data, you will see that most genetic counselors earn between $54,834 and $114,626 each year. These figures show that the field offers a range of earnings based on experience and location. Some genetic counselors may earn more, especially those with many years of experience or who work in high-demand areas. It's a rewarding career with good earning potential for those who choose this path.
What are the highest paying cities for a Genetic Counselor?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $107,633
In San Francisco, professionals in this field often work in top healthcare institutions such as UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente. The city’s advanced medical facilities provide numerous opportunities for career growth and specialization. The dynamic environment supports continuous learning and interaction with diverse patient populations.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $104,029
Seattle offers a robust healthcare sector with leading organizations like Seattle Children's Hospital and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. The city's focus on innovation in medical research provides a rich landscape for those in this field. Employees enjoy a collaborative work atmosphere that emphasizes patient care and community health.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $102,381
In Los Angeles, roles in this area are prevalent in major hospitals such as Cedars-Sinai and UCLA Health. The city’s diverse population offers unique experiences and challenges in patient care. Los Angeles is a hub for medical research and offers many chances for professional development.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $90,805
Portland provides a welcoming environment for healthcare professionals, with institutions like OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital. The city's focus on community and wellness aligns well with the values of this profession. It offers a blend of professional opportunities and a high quality of life.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $86,168
Washington, DC, boasts a strong network of healthcare facilities such as Children’s National Hospital and MedStar Health. The city's emphasis on research and policy makes it an ideal place for those looking to influence health care. Professionals here often engage in cutting-edge studies and community outreach.
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Lexington, KY
Average Salary: $85,728
Lexington is home to key healthcare providers including the University of Kentucky Healthcare and Kentucky Children's Hospital. The city supports a supportive work environment that emphasizes both research and patient care. Lexington offers a balanced lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for professional growth.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $83,590
Philadelphia provides a rich field for this profession, with institutions like the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine. The city’s historic medical background offers a unique setting for both clinical work and research. Philadelphia's vibrant community life complements a fulfilling career in healthcare.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $83,506
In Chicago, roles in this area can be found in renowned hospitals such as Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital. The city’s diverse patient population and large healthcare system offer extensive professional opportunities. Chicago's energetic atmosphere fosters continuous learning and collaboration.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $83,123
Baltimore offers a solid environment for those in this field, with key employers like Johns Hopkins Medicine and the University of Maryland Medical Center. The city's strong focus on medical research provides many avenues for professional advancement. Baltimore’s unique blend of urban and community settings enriches the work experience.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $78,952
Indianapolis provides a solid foundation for healthcare roles, with major institutions such as Indiana University Health and Riley Hospital for Children. The city’s strong emphasis on healthcare education creates a dynamic work environment. Indianapolis supports a balance between professional opportunities and a good quality of life.
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What are the best companies a Genetic Counselor can work for?

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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $100,635
Northwell Health offers rewarding opportunities for Genetic Counselors. They work in many locations in New York. Their role focuses on helping patients understand their genetic health. They value teamwork and career growth.
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LabCorp
Average Salary: $96,867
At LabCorp, Genetic Counselors support patients across the nation. They provide important genetic testing and counseling services. The company values innovation and professional development. Locations include many states in the U.S.
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GeneDx
Average Salary: $80,886
GeneDx is known for its work in genetic testing. Genetic Counselors here help patients understand their genetic information. The company focuses on cutting-edge research and patient care. They operate in many locations across the U.S.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $79,662
UPMC offers many opportunities for Genetic Counselors. They work in locations in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Their role involves providing genetic testing and counseling to patients. UPMC values a collaborative environment.
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University of Utah
Average Salary: $72,510
The University of Utah provides a dynamic environment for Genetic Counselors. They work in Salt Lake City, Utah. Their role focuses on research and patient care. They value education and career growth.
How to earn more as a Genetic Counselor?
A career in genetic counseling offers various pathways to increase your earnings. By focusing on specific areas, genetic counselors can enhance their income potential. One effective strategy is to specialize in a niche area such as oncology, pediatrics, or prenatal counseling. Specialization allows counselors to become experts in specific fields, making them more valuable to employers and clients.
Another factor to consider is gaining additional certifications. Certifications in areas like biochemical genetics or cancer risk assessment can set a counselor apart. These credentials demonstrate a higher level of expertise and can lead to higher-paying positions. Networking within the field also plays a crucial role. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation. Continuing education and staying updated with the latest research and technologies in genetic counseling can further enhance earning potential. Lastly, seeking positions in high-demand areas or urban centers can often result in higher salaries due to the cost of living and competition for talent.
Consider these steps to boost your earnings as a genetic counselor:
- Specialize in a niche area.
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Build a strong professional network.
- Stay updated with continuing education.
- Seek high-demand locations.



