How much does a School Counselor make?
A School Counselor plays a vital role in supporting students' academic and personal growth. This rewarding career comes with a fair salary, offering stability and benefits. On average, a School Counselor makes about $65,840 per year. This amount can vary based on experience, location, and the school district.
Here are some common salary ranges for School Counselors:
- Entry-level: $36,000 - $42,727
- Mid-level: $49,455 - $62,909
- Experienced: $69,636 - $83,091
- Senior: $89,818 - $110,000
Factors affecting salary include the state, city, and type of school. Urban areas might offer higher pay due to the cost of living. Private schools may also offer better compensation than public schools. Keeping these factors in mind can help job seekers make informed career choices.
What are the highest paying cities for a School Counselor?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $97,726
In San Jose, counseling professionals enjoy a thriving educational environment. Silicon Valley companies often collaborate with local schools, offering unique experiences. Career opportunities are abundant in both public and private institutions.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $97,652
San Francisco offers a diverse and dynamic setting for those in education. The city's commitment to innovation and technology creates exciting avenues for student growth. Employment options span across various reputable school districts.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $92,534
San Diego's mild climate and strong community ties provide a welcoming atmosphere for educational counselors. The city's focus on military and naval presence offers distinct challenges and opportunities. Many schools are part of large, well-funded districts.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $89,682
Seattle's progressive outlook and strong emphasis on technology make it an excellent place for counseling professionals. The city's tech companies often engage with schools, providing rich resources. Diverse student populations add depth to counseling experiences.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $86,639
Los Angeles offers a vibrant and multicultural environment for those in education. The city's large and diverse student body provides varied challenges and learning opportunities. Numerous school districts offer extensive career paths for counselors.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $81,950
Richmond combines historical charm with modern opportunities in education. The city's growing tech sector offers new avenues for school-business partnerships. Public and private institutions present a range of employment options for counselors.
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Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $79,113
Birmingham's rich history and growing economy create a unique setting for educational counselors. The city's dedication to improving public education provides many opportunities. Counselors work in diverse environments, from urban to suburban schools.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $74,938
Portland's vibrant culture and commitment to education make it a great place for counseling professionals. The city's focus on sustainability and innovation enriches student experiences. Many schools benefit from strong community involvement.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $74,119
Washington, DC offers a unique blend of political and educational opportunities. The city's diverse student population and numerous institutions provide rich experiences. Many schools have strong ties to government and non-profits, offering unique challenges.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $73,977
Boston's historic and academic environment provides a stimulating place for counselors. The city's many top-tier universities and research institutions offer rich resources. Employment options abound in both public and private sectors.
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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 is a top choice for School Counselor jobs. They offer a comprehensive benefits package and a supportive work environment. They operate many schools across Seattle, providing a diverse range of opportunities for School Counselors.
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Focused Staffing Group
Average Salary: $110,000
Focused Staffing Group values their School Counselors highly. They offer competitive salaries and professional development opportunities. They work with various school districts across the country, making it easy to find a job close to home.
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AB Staffing Solutions
Average Salary: $109,103
AB Staffing Solutions provides great School Counselor positions with excellent benefits. They focus on creating a positive workplace culture and offer jobs in multiple states, including Texas and California.
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Highline Public Schools
Average Salary: $103,769
Highline Public Schools offer rewarding School Counselor roles with a strong emphasis on student support. They operate in the Seattle area, providing many job opportunities within a short commute.
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Richmond Public Schools
Average Salary: $102,210
Richmond Public Schools provide School Counselor positions with a balanced workload and a supportive community. They operate in Richmond, Virginia, offering a range of educational environments for professionals to thrive.
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Prince William County Public Schools
Average Salary: $96,139
Prince William County Public Schools offer competitive School Counselor salaries and a strong educational focus. They serve the Northern Virginia area, providing excellent career growth opportunities.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $94,938
The Stepping Stones Group provides School Counselor jobs with a focus on student success. They have placements in various states, offering flexibility and a chance to make a significant impact in students’ lives.
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Los Angeles County Office of Education
Average Salary: $92,960
Los Angeles County Office of Education offers School Counselor positions with a chance to work in a vibrant educational setting. They operate across Los Angeles County, providing diverse job opportunities.
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Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
Average Salary: $92,847
Montgomery County Public Schools, MD, provides School Counselor roles with a strong commitment to student achievement. They serve the Montgomery area, offering a range of opportunities for professional growth.
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Care Options For Kids
Average Salary: $91,118
Care Options For Kids offers School Counselor positions with a focus on student care and development. They work with various school districts, providing a chance to make a difference in children’s lives.
How to earn more as a School Counselor?
School counselors can improve their earning potential by considering various strategies. A successful counselor often leverages professional development opportunities, which can lead to higher positions or more responsibilities. These advancements can result in a salary increase. Additionally, gaining experience in different school districts or educational environments can open doors to better-paying roles.
Furthering education is another effective method. Obtaining advanced degrees, such as a master's or doctorate in counseling, can increase earning potential. Specializations, such as in college counseling or student mental health, also tend to command higher salaries. Participation in professional organizations and attending workshops can keep skills sharp and credentials up-to-date.
School counselors can also look into these factors to earn more:
- Advanced Degrees: Earning a master's or doctorate can lead to higher-paying jobs.
- Specializations: Areas like college counseling often offer higher salaries.
- Professional Development: Attend workshops and conferences to improve skills and knowledge.
- Experience: Working in various districts can lead to better job opportunities.
- Networking: Join professional organizations to connect with others in the field.



