How much does a Social Worker make?
Social workers play a vital role in helping individuals and communities. They earn a good salary for their important work. The average yearly salary for a social worker is $66,568. This means that, on average, social workers make a solid income each year.
Social workers can earn different amounts based on their experience and where they work. Here are some average salaries for different experience levels:
- Entry-level: $33,650
- Early career: $41,864
- Mid-career: $50,077
- Experienced: $58,291
- Late career: $66,505
- Early post-retirement: $74,718
- Mid post-retirement: $82,932
- Late post-retirement: $91,145
- Very late post-retirement: $99,359
- Peak: $107,573
- End of career: $115,786
- Potential retirement: $124,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Social Worker?

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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $99,043
Vallejo offers a vibrant community for those in the helping profession. With a focus on community health, professionals can work with local organizations to support families and individuals. Companies like Kaiser Permanente provide ample opportunities for growth.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $93,297
Seattle is a bustling city with a strong emphasis on social services. Here, professionals can find rewarding work with organizations like United Way. The city's diverse population offers a rich environment for impactful work.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $91,069
In San Jose, social workers play a key role in community development. Working with tech companies, they support employees and their families. Nonprofits like Silicon Valley Community Foundation offer diverse career paths.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $87,438
Santa Rosa provides a supportive environment for those in the helping field. Professionals can work with local schools and community centers. The city's focus on family services makes it a great place for impactful work.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $86,682
Salem offers a stable environment for social workers. The city's government and nonprofits provide many opportunities. Working with local agencies, professionals can make a real difference in the community.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $85,011
San Francisco is a dynamic city for social workers. With a mix of urban challenges and resources, professionals can find work with major nonprofits. The city's diverse population offers unique opportunities for growth.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $83,569
Spokane provides a welcoming environment for social workers. The city's focus on community health and education offers many opportunities. Working with local nonprofits, professionals can make a significant impact.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $83,051
Washington, DC, is a hub for social workers. The city's numerous government agencies and nonprofits offer diverse career paths. Professionals can work on a wide range of issues, from policy to direct services.
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Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $82,872
Yuma offers a close-knit community for social workers. The city's focus on family services and education provides many opportunities. Working with local organizations, professionals can make a real difference.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $82,000
Los Angeles is a vibrant city with many opportunities for social workers. The city's diverse population and numerous nonprofits offer a wide range of career paths. Working with local agencies, professionals can make a significant impact.
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What are the best companies a Social Worker can work for?

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CVHCare
Average Salary: $180,909
CVHCare offers rewarding Social Worker positions with a focus on community health. They operate in various locations, providing essential services to diverse populations.
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Shore Staffing, Inc
Average Salary: $153,693
Shore Staffing, Inc. provides excellent opportunities for Social Workers. They work in multiple locations, offering a range of services to support individuals and families.
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Beautiful Minds
Average Salary: $147,626
Beautiful Minds is known for its supportive environment for Social Workers. They operate in several locations, focusing on mental health and wellness services.
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Genie Healthcare
Average Salary: $130,236
Genie Healthcare offers competitive salaries for Social Workers. They serve various locations, providing critical support services to those in need.
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TheraCare
Average Salary: $125,143
TheraCare provides rewarding roles for Social Workers. They operate in multiple locations, focusing on rehabilitation and support services.
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El Camino Health
Average Salary: $123,634
El Camino Health offers excellent opportunities for Social Workers. They serve various locations, providing comprehensive healthcare services.
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Backstage Health
Average Salary: $120,000
Backstage Health provides competitive salaries for Social Workers. They operate in several locations, offering a range of healthcare services.
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Keck Medicine of USC
Average Salary: $118,981
Keck Medicine of USC offers rewarding positions for Social Workers. They serve multiple locations, providing top-notch healthcare services.
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TrueCare24
Average Salary: $115,833
TrueCare24 provides excellent opportunities for Social Workers. They operate in various locations, offering essential healthcare services.
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Wayfinder Family Services
Average Salary: $115,035
Wayfinder Family Services offers rewarding roles for Social Workers. They serve multiple locations, focusing on family support and counseling services.
How to earn more as a Social Worker?
Social workers play a vital role in helping individuals and communities. They often work in challenging environments. However, there are ways to increase earnings in this rewarding field. By focusing on certain areas, social workers can enhance their career prospects and financial stability.
One way to earn more is to gain advanced certifications. Specialized skills can lead to higher-paying positions. For example, becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) can open doors to private practice or more specialized roles. Another factor is gaining experience in high-demand areas. Working in mental health, child welfare, or geriatric care can lead to better-paying jobs. Networking with other professionals can also lead to job opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help build connections. Working in urban areas or regions with a shortage of social workers can lead to higher salaries. Lastly, pursuing a master's degree in social work can significantly increase earning potential.
Social workers who invest in their education and skills can see substantial rewards. These efforts can lead to more fulfilling and financially rewarding careers.
- Gain advanced certifications
- Gain experience in high-demand areas
- Network with other professionals
- Work in urban areas or regions with a shortage of social workers
- Pursue a master's degree in social work