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How much does a Genetic Counselor make?

The average salary for a Genetic Counselor is $86,808 per year in the US.

A Genetic Counselor helps people understand their genetic risks for various conditions. This is a rewarding career with good pay. On average, a Genetic Counselor earns about $86,808 a year. This means most genetic counselors see a steady income, which can be very satisfying.

The pay for Genetic Counselors can vary a bit depending on experience, location, and specific job role. Here are some details:

  • The lowest-paid 10% earn about $39,050.
  • The highest-paid 10% earn about $131,710.
  • Most genetic counselors fall in the middle, earning between $64,321 and $98,015.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Genetic Counselor?

Job seekers looking to become genetic counselors can expect higher pay in major metropolitan areas. San Francisco, Seattle, and Los Angeles offer the highest average salaries for these professionals. Cities like Portland, Chicago, and Washington, DC also provide competitive wages for genetic counselors. Opportunities exist in many regions, with Baltimore, Lexington, and Salt Lake City also offering strong compensation packages. These locations combine professional opportunities with quality living environments.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Genetic Counselor jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $109,814 and Salt Lake City, UT with the lowest at $77,101.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $109,814
    In San Francisco, professionals in this field work closely with cutting-edge research institutions. Companies like UCSF Health and Stanford Medicine are at the forefront of genetic research and patient care. The city offers a dynamic environment for those passionate about advancing genetic knowledge.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $106,218
    Seattle provides a unique setting for genetic counselors, with leading firms such as Seattle Children's Hospital and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. The city’s vibrant community supports a strong network of healthcare professionals dedicated to improving patient outcomes.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $102,614
    Los Angeles offers diverse opportunities for genetic counselors, with institutions like Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. The city’s multicultural environment enriches the work, allowing professionals to serve a wide range of communities.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  4. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $90,805
    In Portland, genetic counselors find a welcoming community of healthcare providers. The city's strong focus on wellness and preventive care makes it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact. Companies like Oregon Health & Science University offer excellent career prospects.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in Portland, OR


  5. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $86,232
    Chicago is home to several renowned institutions where genetic counselors can excel. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital and Northwestern Memorial Hospital provide extensive opportunities for professional growth and patient care.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL


  6. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $85,734
    In Washington, DC, genetic counselors contribute to both private practices and public health organizations. The city’s vibrant professional scene, including institutions like the National Institutes of Health, offers unique career advancement opportunities.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in Washington, DC


  7. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $84,954
    Philadelphia offers a rich landscape for genetic counselors, with major employers such as Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania. The city's history of medical innovation provides a strong foundation for those in the field.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in Philadelphia, PA


  8. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $84,102
    Baltimore provides a supportive environment for genetic counselors, with key institutions like Johns Hopkins University and the Kennedy Krieger Institute. The city's dedication to medical research makes it an excellent place to work and grow.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in Baltimore, MD


  9. Lexington, KY
    Average Salary: $83,009
    Lexington offers a balanced lifestyle for genetic counselors, with top employers such as the University of Kentucky and Kentucky Children’s Hospital. The city's commitment to healthcare excellence supports a rewarding career in genetic counseling.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in Lexington, KY


  10. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $77,101
    In Salt Lake City, genetic counselors find opportunities in leading medical centers like the University of Utah Health and Intermountain Healthcare. The city's strong emphasis on health and wellness creates a positive environment for professionals in this field.
    Find Genetic Counselor jobs in Salt Lake City, UT

What are the best companies a Genetic Counselor can work for?

Northwell Health offers the highest average salary for Genetic Counselors at $101,315 annually. Job seekers looking for a well-paying position may consider positions at LabCorp and GeneDx, which offer average salaries around $94,792 and $80,185, respectively. UPMC and the University of Utah also provide competitive salaries, though slightly lower.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Genetic Counselor jobs, highlighting Northwell Health with the highest at $101,315 and University of Utah with the lowest at $77,112.
  1. Northwell Health
    Average Salary: $101,315
    Northwell Health offers exciting opportunities for Genetic Counselors. They provide comprehensive care across their many locations in New York. Their team works with patients to provide personalized care and support.


  2. LabCorp
    Average Salary: $94,792
    LabCorp is a leading global life sciences company. They offer a wide range of Genetic Counseling jobs. They provide extensive training and growth opportunities. Their locations span the United States, giving you many options.


  3. GeneDx
    Average Salary: $80,185
    GeneDx focuses on genetic testing and counseling. They offer a range of job opportunities for Genetic Counselors. Their offices are located in key areas, providing a chance to work in dynamic environments. They emphasize a supportive and collaborative atmosphere.


  4. UPMC
    Average Salary: $79,332
    UPMC is a major health care provider. They have several positions for Genetic Counselors. They operate across Pennsylvania and other states. UPMC values teamwork and innovation, offering a positive workplace culture.


  5. University of Utah
    Average Salary: $77,112
    The University of Utah provides a range of opportunities for Genetic Counselors. They focus on education and research. They operate in Salt Lake City, Utah, offering a chance to work in a vibrant academic setting. They promote professional growth and development.

How to earn more as a Genetic Counselor?

A career as a Genetic Counselor can be both rewarding and financially fulfilling. A few steps can help increase earnings in this field. One important factor is obtaining advanced certifications. These certifications show expertise and can lead to higher-paying positions. Another way to increase income is by working in high-demand areas, such as large cities or specialized clinics.

Additionally, experience plays a significant role in earning potential. Those with more years in the field often command higher salaries. Networking with other professionals can also open doors to better job opportunities. Lastly, pursuing a master's degree can make a Genetic Counselor more competitive in the job market. These factors can help genetic counselors earn more and advance in their careers.

Here are key factors to consider for increasing earnings as a Genetic Counselor:

  1. Obtain advanced certifications.
  2. Work in high-demand areas.
  3. Gain more experience.
  4. Network with other professionals.
  5. Pursue a master's degree.

Currently 79 Genetic Counselor job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Genetic Counselor in the US?

Learn what a Genetic Counselor does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Genetic Counselor today.
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Genetic Counselor
79 Job Openings