How much does a Social Services Specialist make?
Social Services Specialists play a vital role in helping communities. They work with people who need support and guidance. Their work can make a big difference in many lives. The average yearly salary for a Social Services Specialist is around $52,966. This means they earn a good income for their important work.
The salary for Social Services Specialists can vary. Some earn less, while others earn more. Here are some common salaries:
- $32,000 for the lowest 10%
- $37,500 for the next 10%
- $43,000 for the next 20%
- $48,500 for the next 15%
- $54,000 for the next 10%
- $59,500 for the next 5%
- $65,000 for the next 5%
- $70,500 for the next 5%
- $76,000 for the next 5%
- $81,500 for the next 5%
- $87,000 for the top 5%
What are the highest paying cities for a Social Services Specialist?

-
Bend, OR
Average Salary: $86,916
In Bend, a Social Services Specialist can find rewarding work with local non-profits. The community values support for mental health and family services. Working with organizations like Central Oregon Community College can offer growth opportunities.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Bend, OR
-
Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $83,882
Fresno offers a dynamic environment for those in social services. The city has a strong focus on community health and education. Specialists can work with prominent agencies like Valley Children's Healthcare, making a significant impact.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Fresno, CA
-
Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $76,685
Spokane provides a supportive setting for social service professionals. The city emphasizes youth and family services. Working with organizations like Catholic Charities can lead to fulfilling career experiences.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Spokane, WA
-
Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $74,053
Anchorage is a vibrant city for social service roles. The focus is on addressing homelessness and substance abuse. Specialists can work with local organizations like the Alaska Community Foundation, contributing to community well-being.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Anchorage, AK
-
Salem, OR
Average Salary: $71,389
Salem offers a stable environment for social service workers. The city prioritizes mental health and child welfare. Working with agencies like the Oregon Department of Human Services can provide a sense of purpose.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Salem, OR
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $70,757
San Francisco is a bustling city for social service professionals. The city has a strong focus on homelessness and mental health. Working with organizations like the San Francisco Department of Public Health can be very rewarding.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $70,318
Seattle provides a progressive environment for social service workers. The city emphasizes community health and education. Working with organizations like NAMI Seattle can offer meaningful experiences.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $69,800
San Diego offers a diverse setting for social service roles. The city focuses on family services and mental health. Working with agencies like the San Diego County Department of Social Services can lead to impactful work.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $67,527
Richmond provides a supportive environment for social service workers. The city emphasizes community health and education. Working with organizations like the Richmond Department of Social Services can be fulfilling.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Richmond, VA
-
Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $67,435
Baltimore offers a dynamic environment for social service professionals. The city focuses on youth and family services. Working with agencies like the Baltimore City Health Department can lead to impactful career experiences.
Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Baltimore, MD
What are the best companies a Social Services Specialist can work for?

-
Fairfax County
Average Salary: $93,093
Fairfax County offers rewarding roles for Social Services Specialists. They work in various locations across Virginia, providing essential services to the community. The county is known for its strong support systems and professional development opportunities.
-
Fairfax County Government
Average Salary: $90,930
Fairfax County Government provides excellent opportunities for Social Services Specialists. They serve communities in Fairfax County, offering a range of services to support residents. The government emphasizes career growth and community engagement.
-
State of Nevada
Average Salary: $80,156
The State of Nevada offers competitive salaries for Social Services Specialists. They work in different cities across Nevada, providing vital services to the state's residents. The state values public service and offers a supportive work environment.
-
Exodus Recovery Inc.
Average Salary: $77,955
Exodus Recovery Inc. provides meaningful roles for Social Services Specialists. They operate in several locations in California, focusing on recovery and support services. The company is known for its compassionate approach and team-oriented culture.
-
State of Washington
Average Salary: $76,833
The State of Washington offers good opportunities for Social Services Specialists. They work in various cities across the state, providing essential services to residents. The state is committed to public service and offers a collaborative work environment.
-
U.S. Army
Average Salary: $75,476
The U.S. Army provides rewarding roles for Social Services Specialists. They serve in different locations worldwide, offering support to military families. The Army values dedication and offers a structured career path.
-
Department of Human Services
Average Salary: $71,078
The Department of Human Services offers competitive salaries for Social Services Specialists. They work in various locations, providing essential services to the community. The department is committed to public welfare and offers a supportive work environment.
-
State of Arkansas
Average Salary: $66,431
The State of Arkansas offers good opportunities for Social Services Specialists. They work in different cities across the state, providing vital services to residents. The state values public service and offers a collaborative work environment.
-
State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $66,003
The State of New Mexico offers rewarding roles for Social Services Specialists. They work in various locations across the state, providing essential services to the community. The state is known for its commitment to public welfare.
-
BayCare Health System
Average Salary: $63,636
BayCare Health System provides excellent opportunities for Social Services Specialists. They work in different locations in Florida, providing vital services to patients. The system is known for its patient-centered approach and supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Social Services Specialist?
A Social Services Specialist can find ways to increase their earnings through various avenues. Gaining more experience and skills can lead to higher-paying positions. Specialization in areas like mental health, child welfare, or substance abuse can open up more lucrative roles. Networking with other professionals and staying informed about industry trends can also lead to better job opportunities.
Pursuing additional certifications and degrees can significantly boost earnings. For example, a license as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) often comes with higher pay. Continuing education courses can keep skills sharp and relevant. Working in high-demand areas or with underserved populations can also lead to higher compensation. Seeking roles in urban areas or regions with a shortage of specialists can provide better salary packages. Lastly, negotiating salary and benefits effectively can lead to higher earnings over time.
Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as a Social Services Specialist:
- Gain more experience and skills.
- Specialize in high-demand areas.
- Pursue additional certifications and degrees.
- Work in high-demand areas or underserved populations.
- Negotiate salary and benefits effectively.



