How much does a Residential Counselor make?
Residential Counselors support people living in group homes, shelters, or other residential facilities. They earn a good income, with an average yearly salary of $42,138. This means they typically make between $32,000 and $64,190 each year. Most Residential Counselors fall in the middle range, making between $37,853 and $55,411.
The salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of facility. Counselors with more experience and those in larger cities tend to earn more. This is a rewarding job where people can make a real difference in others’ lives.
What are the highest paying cities for a Residential Counselor?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $65,496
In Seattle, providing support to individuals in residential care facilities offers the chance to make a significant impact. With major employers like Childhaven and Family Home, professionals can expect rewarding work and growth opportunities.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $61,206
Working in Memphis's residential care centers allows for a close-knit community feel. Professionals here can find employment with well-established organizations like Promises and Delta Health Alliance, offering support and career advancement.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $58,191
Santa Rosa presents a perfect blend of natural beauty and supportive community work. Here, residential counselors can work with reputable companies like Marin Treatment Center, making a difference in people's lives while enjoying the area's serene surroundings.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $54,753
San Francisco's unique, diverse environment offers rich experiences for those in the residential care field. Working with organizations like Project Turnabout, professionals here can expect both challenges and rewards in a vibrant, dynamic city.
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Akron, OH
Average Salary: $54,459
Akron provides a close-knit community atmosphere for those in residential care. Here, with companies like The Menninger Clinic, professionals can expect supportive environments and opportunities for career growth and development.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $53,528
In Denver, residential counselors find a balance between urban living and professional growth. Working with organizations such as Denver Rescue Mission, employees can expect a rewarding career with a focus on community impact.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $51,671
San Jose offers a tech-savvy environment perfect for those in residential care. With employers like San Jose State University, professionals can expect innovative approaches and opportunities for career advancement.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $51,591
New Orleans' vibrant culture creates a unique setting for residential care professionals. Working with organizations like New Orleans Child Advocacy Center, employees can expect an engaging and culturally rich work environment.
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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $50,498
Eugene's laid-back atmosphere and commitment to community make it a great place for residential counselors. Here, with companies like Options Counseling Services, professionals can expect supportive environments and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $48,954
Salinas offers a tight-knit community experience for those in residential care. Working with organizations like Community Alliance, employees can expect a rewarding career with a focus on community well-being and personal development.
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What are the best companies a Residential Counselor can work for?

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Chesterfield County
Average Salary: $61,562
Chesterfield County offers a supportive environment for Residential Counselors. They focus on helping youth in various locations, including Richmond, Midlothian, and other areas. This role involves direct care and support for individuals in residential settings.
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Youth Villages
Average Salary: $57,071
Youth Villages is a nonprofit dedicated to serving children and families. They operate across multiple states, including Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Kentucky. Residential Counselors at Youth Villages work with children and families in crisis, providing care and support.
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Bay Area Community Services
Average Salary: $57,000
Bay Area Community Services offers Residential Counselor positions in Northern California. They provide mental health and substance abuse services. This role includes working with individuals in residential settings to help them achieve personal growth.
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Tennyson Center for Children
Average Salary: $52,864
The Tennyson Center for Children operates in Indiana, offering care and support for children and families. Residential Counselors here help young people overcome challenges through a structured, supportive environment.
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Edgewood Center for Children and Families
Average Salary: $51,762
Edgewood Center serves children and families in Pennsylvania. Their programs focus on mental health and special education. Residential Counselors play a key role in providing care and support in residential settings.
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Bill Wilson Center
Average Salary: $51,638
The Bill Wilson Center offers addiction treatment services in New Jersey. Residential Counselors here assist individuals in recovery, providing a supportive environment and helping them through their rehabilitation.
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City of Alexandria, VA
Average Salary: $50,320
The City of Alexandria offers several opportunities for Residential Counselors. They serve the community in Alexandria, Virginia. This role involves working with individuals in various residential programs, providing care and support.
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Northern Rivers Family of Services
Average Salary: $48,273
Northern Rivers operates in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. They focus on providing mental health and substance abuse services. Residential Counselors here help individuals in residential settings to achieve their recovery goals.
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Mountain Valley Treatment Center
Average Salary: $48,000
Mountain Valley Treatment Center operates in West Virginia. They offer substance abuse treatment and mental health services. Residential Counselors play a crucial role in supporting individuals through their treatment journey.
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Community Youth Services
Average Salary: $47,648
Community Youth Services operates in Pennsylvania, providing mental health and educational services. Residential Counselors here work with children and youth, offering care and support in residential settings.
How to earn more as a Residential Counselor?
Residential Counselors have a rewarding role in helping individuals improve their lives. They can earn more by taking certain steps. This can lead to both personal fulfillment and financial benefits. These steps often involve gaining more skills, experience, and education. Each of these can open up higher-paying opportunities.
Here are key factors that can help Residential Counselors earn more:
- Obtain advanced certifications. Additional training can lead to higher-paying jobs. Look for certifications in mental health, crisis intervention, or specialized counseling skills. These can make a big difference in a counselor's earning potential.
- Gain experience. More years in the field usually mean higher pay. Seek roles that offer a variety of experiences. Working in different settings can also be valuable. Each new experience can provide a better understanding of the job.
- Pursue higher education. A bachelor’s or master’s degree can lead to better-paying positions. Advanced degrees often qualify counselors for higher-level roles. These might include management or specialized counseling positions.
- Specialize in high-demand areas. Some areas of counseling have higher demand and pay. Specialties like substance abuse, trauma, or working with children might offer more opportunities. Specializing can make a counselor more valuable to employers.
- Seek leadership roles. Moving into management or supervisory positions can increase earnings. Leadership roles often come with higher salaries. They also provide more responsibility and the chance to make a bigger impact.



