How much does a Hospice Chaplain make?
Choosing a career in hospice care can be both rewarding and financially beneficial. As a hospice chaplain, you offer spiritual support to patients and their families during difficult times. Many professionals in this role find it both fulfilling and lucrative. On average, hospice chaplains earn about $60,365 per year.
The salary for hospice chaplains can vary based on experience, location, and the employing organization. Here are some details about the earnings:
- About 10% of chaplains earn less than $40,000 annually.
- Around 18% earn between $40,000 and $47,000.
- More than 30% make between $54,000 and $62,000 per year.
- Another 18% earn between $62,000 and $70,000 annually.
- Approximately 11% earn between $70,000 and $80,000.
- About 1% make between $80,000 and $90,000 per year.
- A small percentage earn over $90,000 annually.
What are the highest paying cities for a Hospice Chaplain?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $88,053
Working as a spiritual care provider in Los Angeles offers a chance to support patients and families in a vibrant community. Many leading healthcare facilities, such as Kaiser Permanente and UCLA Health, provide a range of opportunities. The city's diverse population enriches the experience, making each day meaningful and varied.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $75,118
In Fresno, offering compassionate spiritual care helps patients during tough times. Local organizations like Saint Agnes Medical Center and Community Regional Medical Center provide excellent environments for professionals. The city's warm community spirit makes the work deeply rewarding.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $66,372
Portland's serene environment offers a peaceful setting for providing spiritual support. Working at Providence Health & Services and Kaiser Permanente, one can make a significant impact. The city’s focus on wellness and community adds to the positive experience of helping others.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $64,956
Houston provides a dynamic setting for offering spiritual care. Hospitals like MD Anderson Cancer Center and Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center offer varied experiences. The city’s diverse population allows professionals to connect deeply with many different backgrounds.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $64,632
In San Antonio, professionals can find fulfilling roles in supportive environments. Working at places like University Health System and CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System, one can make a meaningful difference. The city’s strong sense of community enhances the experience of providing care.
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Lexington, KY
Average Salary: $64,391
Lexington offers a welcoming environment for those providing spiritual care. Working at facilities like Saint Joseph Hospital and Baptist Health Lexington, professionals can enjoy a supportive work atmosphere. The city’s rich cultural heritage enriches the experience.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $64,381
In Miami, offering spiritual support happens in a culturally diverse environment. Working at Baptist Health and Jackson Health System, one can engage with a wide range of people. The city’s vibrant community adds a dynamic element to the work.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $62,756
San Diego provides a beautiful setting for offering spiritual care. Working at Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health, one can enjoy a supportive and innovative environment. The city’s coastal charm makes the work both enjoyable and fulfilling.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $62,201
In Denver, the role of providing spiritual care takes place in a picturesque city. Hospitals like UCHealth and Denver Health Medical Center offer a variety of opportunities. The city’s outdoor lifestyle provides a refreshing backdrop for professional and personal growth.
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Green Bay, WI
Average Salary: $60,865
Green Bay offers a close-knit community for those providing spiritual care. Working at institutions like Bellin Health and ThedaCare, one can experience a supportive work environment. The city’s friendly atmosphere makes the job both rewarding and pleasant.
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What are the best companies a Hospice Chaplain can work for?

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Suncrest Hospice
Average Salary: $66,947
Suncrest Hospice provides compassionate care with a strong focus on spiritual and emotional support. They operate across multiple locations, including Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, and Tennessee. They seek compassionate hospice chaplains to join their team.
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AccentCare
Average Salary: $65,337
AccentCare is dedicated to providing quality hospice care. They serve communities across the United States, including Texas, California, and Florida. They look for dedicated chaplains to support patients and families with spiritual care.
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Sunset Hospice
Average Salary: $62,867
Sunset Hospice offers a supportive environment for their hospice chaplains. They are present in states like Texas, Florida, and New York. They emphasize spiritual care as a key part of hospice services.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $61,179
Amedisys provides home health and hospice care with a focus on personal service. They operate in various locations, including Florida, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. They seek chaplains who can provide spiritual support to patients and families.
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Gentiva
Average Salary: $56,829
Gentiva offers comprehensive hospice services. They have locations in several states, including California, Florida, and Texas. They look for chaplains who can offer spiritual support to patients and their families.
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Interim HealthCare
Average Salary: $54,571
Interim HealthCare provides personalized care, including spiritual support. They are located across many states in the U.S., such as Texas and Florida. They need chaplains who can provide compassionate care.
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Preceptor Home Health & Hospice
Average Salary: $54,136
Preceptor Home Health & Hospice focuses on quality care for patients and families. They have locations in states such as Florida, Pennsylvania, and Texas. They seek chaplains to provide spiritual care and support.
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Medical Services of America
Average Salary: $51,400
Medical Services of America offers comprehensive hospice care. They operate in states like Texas, Florida, and Pennsylvania. They are looking for chaplains who can offer spiritual and emotional support.
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Aveanna Healthcare
Average Salary: $48,533
Aveanna Healthcare provides a range of care services, including hospice. They have locations across multiple states, including Texas, Florida, and Pennsylvania. They need chaplains to support patients and families with spiritual care.
How to earn more as a Hospice Chaplain?
Seeking higher earnings as a Hospice Chaplain involves strategic career moves and professional development. Enhancing skills and gaining relevant experience can lead to increased job opportunities and salary. Specializing in areas such as palliative care and grief counseling can make a chaplain more valuable to employers. Networking with other healthcare professionals also opens doors to better-paying positions.
Another effective strategy includes pursuing advanced certifications and degrees in hospice and palliative care. These credentials can differentiate a chaplain from others in the job market, making them a top candidate for higher-paying roles. Staying updated on the latest trends and best practices in the field ensures that a chaplain remains competitive and attractive to potential employers. Continuous education not only boosts earning potential but also enriches the care provided to patients and their families.
Factors that can increase a Hospice Chaplain’s earnings include:
- Specializing in palliative care and grief counseling
- Pursuing advanced certifications and degrees
- Networking with other healthcare professionals
- Staying updated on industry trends and best practices
- Seeking higher-paying positions through continuous education



