How much does a Social Worker make?
Social workers play a vital role in helping people improve their lives. They work in many different settings, such as schools, hospitals, and community centers. The average yearly salary for a social worker is around $63,770. This means that most social workers earn between $32,000 and $120,000 each year.
The salary can vary based on several factors. These include the type of work, the location, and the level of experience. For example, a social worker in a hospital may earn more than one in a school. Also, a social worker with many years of experience usually earns more than a new one. The most common salary range for social workers is between $40,000 and $80,000. This range covers about 60% of all social workers.
What are the highest paying cities for a Social Worker?

-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $91,407
In Seattle, professionals help people in need through various programs. Many work for organizations like Group Health Cooperative and Seattle Children's Hospital. The city offers a supportive environment for those dedicated to community service.
Find Social Worker jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $89,403
San Jose offers many opportunities for those who care about others. Workers here often collaborate with companies like Kaiser Permanente and Child and Family Guidance Center. The city values social services and provides a rewarding work atmosphere.
Find Social Worker jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $84,439
Santa Rosa is a great place for those who want to make a difference. Employees often work with local nonprofits and government agencies. The community here is close-knit and supportive, making it a fulfilling place to work.
Find Social Worker jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $82,444
San Francisco provides a dynamic environment for helping others. Many professionals work with organizations like the San Francisco Unified School District and the Department of Children, Youth, and Their Families. The city's diverse population offers unique challenges and rewards.
Find Social Worker jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $81,678
Vallejo offers a range of opportunities for those in the helping professions. Workers often collaborate with local government agencies and nonprofits. The community here is focused on improving lives, making it a rewarding place to work.
Find Social Worker jobs in Vallejo, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $80,858
In Washington, DC, professionals have the chance to impact many lives. Many work for federal agencies and large nonprofits. The city's political environment offers unique opportunities for advocacy and change.
Find Social Worker jobs in Washington, DC
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $79,673
Los Angeles provides a vibrant setting for those who want to help others. Many work with large organizations like the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services. The city's diversity and size offer many opportunities to make a difference.
Find Social Worker jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $78,741
Spokane offers a supportive community for those in the helping professions. Many work with local nonprofits and government agencies. The city values social services and offers a rewarding work environment.
Find Social Worker jobs in Spokane, WA
-
Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $78,653
Stockton provides a range of opportunities for those who care about others. Workers often collaborate with local nonprofits and government agencies. The community is focused on improving lives, making it a fulfilling place to work.
Find Social Worker jobs in Stockton, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $76,858
Boston offers many opportunities for those who want to help others. Many work with large organizations like the Boston Public Schools and the Department of Children and Families. The city's rich history and diverse population offer unique challenges and rewards.
Find Social Worker jobs in Boston, MA
What are the best companies a Social Worker can work for?

-
Shore Staffing, Inc
Average Salary: $152,954
Shore Staffing, Inc. offers rewarding Social Worker positions. They operate in various locations, including New York, California, and Texas. Their roles focus on providing support to individuals and families in need.
-
Beautiful Minds
Average Salary: $147,185
Beautiful Minds provides excellent opportunities for Social Workers. They have offices in Chicago, Boston, and Seattle. Their positions emphasize mental health and community support.
-
Genie Healthcare
Average Salary: $130,401
Genie Healthcare offers competitive salaries for Social Workers. They serve areas like Los Angeles, Miami, and Denver. Their roles involve helping clients navigate social services and resources.
-
TheraCare
Average Salary: $125,000
TheraCare is a top employer for Social Workers. They operate in San Francisco, Atlanta, and Phoenix. Their positions focus on providing care and support to vulnerable populations.
-
El Camino Health
Average Salary: $122,209
El Camino Health offers rewarding roles for Social Workers. They serve communities in Northern California. Their positions focus on patient care and support services.
-
Wayfinder Family Services
Average Salary: $118,738
Wayfinder Family Services provides excellent opportunities for Social Workers. They operate in Washington, D.C., and Maryland. Their roles focus on family support and child welfare.
-
Clover Health Services
Average Salary: $115,774
Clover Health Services offers competitive salaries for Social Workers. They serve areas in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Their positions focus on healthcare support and community services.
-
TrueCare24
Average Salary: $115,424
TrueCare24 provides rewarding roles for Social Workers. They operate in California and Florida. Their positions focus on providing care and support to individuals and families.
-
U.S. Army
Average Salary: $108,916
The U.S. Army offers rewarding positions for Social Workers. They serve across the United States and internationally. Their roles focus on supporting military families and personnel.
-
ATC Healthcare
Average Salary: $108,667
ATC Healthcare provides competitive salaries for Social Workers. They serve areas in New York, California, and Illinois. Their positions focus on providing care and support to clients in need.
How to earn more as a Social Worker?
Social workers play a vital role in helping individuals and communities. They can increase their earnings by focusing on certain key areas. One way is to gain more experience and specialize in a high-demand field. Another way is to pursue advanced degrees and certifications. These steps can lead to higher-paying positions and more opportunities.
Social workers can also boost their income by seeking out roles in higher-paying sectors. For example, working in healthcare or government often comes with better salaries. Networking and joining professional organizations can open doors to these higher-paying jobs. Attending conferences and workshops can also provide valuable connections. These steps can help social workers find better-paying positions and advance their careers.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a social worker:
- Advanced Education: Earning a master's degree or a Ph.D. can lead to higher-paying jobs.
- Specialization: Focusing on areas like mental health or child welfare can increase demand and pay.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications in areas like clinical social work can boost earnings.
- Experience: Gaining more experience can lead to promotions and higher salaries.
- Location: Working in areas with higher costs of living can mean higher pay.



