How much does a School Counselor make?
School counselors help students with personal and educational issues. They work in schools and help students choose classes and plan for their future. This job is important and can be rewarding.
The average yearly salary for a school counselor is $66,177. This means that most school counselors earn close to this amount each year. The salary can change based on experience, education, and location. For example, those with more years of experience may earn more. Also, counselors in larger cities may earn more than those in smaller towns.
Here is a look at the salary breakdown for school counselors:
- 10% of school counselors earn less than $42,727.
- 25% earn between $42,727 and $49,455.
- 50% earn between $49,455 and $62,909.
- 75% earn between $62,909 and $76,364.
- 90% earn between $76,364 and $89,818.
- 100% earn between $89,818 and $110,000 or more.
What are the highest paying cities for a School Counselor?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $97,652
San Francisco offers diverse opportunities for those in educational support roles. With a range of schools and programs, professionals can make a significant impact on students' lives. Many top employers include large school districts and private institutions.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $96,721
In San Jose, educational support staff enjoy a vibrant community. The tech-heavy area provides unique resources and support for student development. Key employers include public school districts and tech-focused private schools.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $94,258
San Diego presents a supportive environment for those in educational roles. The city's many school districts offer diverse opportunities. Major employers include both public and private education institutions.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $90,163
Sacramento provides a stable setting for educational professionals. The city's numerous school districts and educational programs allow for impactful work. Notable employers include public schools and educational nonprofits.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $89,771
Seattle's dynamic schools offer a wealth of opportunities for educational support staff. The city’s progressive environment encourages innovative programs. Key employers range from public districts to private schools.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $89,311
Los Angeles presents a bustling environment for educational support workers. The city's vast school districts provide numerous chances to make a difference. Major employers include large public school systems and private educational institutions.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $82,935
Richmond offers a welcoming atmosphere for those in educational roles. The city's various school districts provide diverse opportunities. Major employers include public school systems and local private schools.
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Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $79,196
Birmingham provides a supportive community for educational professionals. The city’s many schools offer varied roles and responsibilities. Key employers include public districts and private educational institutions.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $75,476
Albany offers a rich environment for those in educational support. The city’s schools provide a variety of opportunities. Major employers include public districts and educational organizations.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $75,316
Portland provides a progressive setting for educational staff. The city’s diverse schools offer numerous opportunities. Major employers include public school districts and private educational institutions.
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What are the best companies a School Counselor can work for?

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Seattle Public Schools
Average Salary: $112,354
Seattle Public Schools offer rewarding School Counselor roles. These positions provide support to students in various Seattle locations. Counselors work in schools across the city, helping students succeed.
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AB Staffing Solutions
Average Salary: $110,551
AB Staffing Solutions is known for offering competitive salaries for School Counselors. They place counselors in schools across multiple states. This role requires flexibility and a commitment to student support.
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Focused Staffing Group
Average Salary: $110,000
Focused Staffing Group provides excellent opportunities for School Counselors. They place counselors in schools in several regions. Counselors here work closely with students to support their growth and well-being.
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Richmond Public Schools
Average Salary: $102,611
Richmond Public Schools offer promising roles for School Counselors. These positions help students in Richmond. Counselors here work to create a supportive school environment.
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Prince William County Public Schools
Average Salary: $97,019
Prince William County Public Schools provide a stable environment for School Counselors. They place counselors in schools across the county. Counselors here focus on student success and well-being.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $95,523
The Stepping Stones Group offers School Counselor positions in various schools. They place counselors in multiple states. These roles require dedication to student support and development.
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Stafford County Public Schools
Average Salary: $93,672
Stafford County Public Schools provide School Counselor positions with a competitive salary. They place counselors in schools throughout Stafford County. Counselors here focus on helping students achieve their goals.
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Los Angeles County Office of Education
Average Salary: $92,960
Los Angeles County Office of Education offers School Counselor roles in several schools. Counselors work to support students in Los Angeles. This role requires a commitment to student success.
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Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
Average Salary: $92,545
Montgomery County Public Schools offer rewarding School Counselor positions. They place counselors in schools across Montgomery County, Maryland. Counselors here focus on supporting student well-being and success.
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Care Options For Kids
Average Salary: $91,333
Care Options For Kids provides School Counselor roles in various locations. They place counselors in schools across multiple regions. Counselors here work to support students' growth and development.
How to earn more as a School Counselor?
Increasing your earnings as a School Counselor can open up new possibilities both professionally and personally. Many School Counselors find that with the right steps, they can increase their salary and improve their job satisfaction. By focusing on professional development, specialization, and networking, you can boost your earning potential.
Consider these factors to help increase your salary as a School Counselor:
- Continuing Education: Attending workshops and obtaining advanced certifications can make you more valuable to employers. These skills can lead to higher-paying positions.
- Specialization: Gaining expertise in areas like college counseling, crisis intervention, or career guidance can make you an attractive candidate for schools seeking specific skills.
- Networking: Building connections with other professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities and higher salaries. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with peers on LinkedIn.
- Leadership Roles: Taking on leadership positions such as department head or counselor-in-charge can lead to higher pay. These roles often come with salary increases and added responsibilities.
- Additional Responsibilities: Volunteering to take on extra duties, such as coordinating school events or student programs, can impress employers and lead to salary increases.



