How much does a Social Worker make?
Social workers focus on helping individuals and communities improve their well-being. Their work ranges from offering counseling to finding resources for those in need. This field offers various paths and earnings based on experience and location. On average, social workers make about $66,093 per year. This number helps job seekers understand what to expect if they enter this field.
Salaries for social workers can vary widely. For example, some workers make as little as $32,960 per year while others make upwards of $122,000. The majority earn between $41,055 and $113,905 per year. These figures show that experience and specialization can lead to higher earnings. Social workers in urban areas and those with advanced degrees often earn more than those in rural settings or with basic qualifications.
What are the highest paying cities for a Social Worker?

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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $121,275
In Vallejo, professionals in this field help individuals and families in need. Many work with local government and non-profits. They assist with resources and services to improve quality of life.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $94,721
San Jose offers many opportunities to aid those facing challenges. Working with tech companies and local agencies, these experts provide crucial support. They help connect people with the care they need.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $94,463
Seattle is a vibrant city for those in the helping profession. Professionals here work with tech firms and community organizations. They focus on mental health, child welfare, and family support.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $89,562
Santa Rosa provides a supportive environment for those in the helping profession. They collaborate with local schools and health care providers. These experts work to ensure families receive the care they need.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $88,337
In San Francisco, these professionals help people navigate complex social issues. They work with large non-profits and city agencies. They offer vital services to improve community well-being.
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Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $87,099
Yuma offers rewarding work for those in the helping field. Professionals here assist with local programs and support services. They help individuals overcome challenges and improve their lives.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $87,073
Washington, DC, is a hub for professionals aiding others. They work with federal agencies and non-profits. They focus on policy, advocacy, and direct service to support those in need.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $86,107
Los Angeles provides many opportunities for those in the helping field. They work with diverse communities and large organizations. They offer services to improve the lives of many people.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $84,415
Spokane offers a welcoming environment for those in the helping profession. Professionals here work with local agencies and non-profits. They focus on mental health, child welfare, and community support.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $82,988
In Salem, professionals in this field support individuals and families. They work with state agencies and local organizations. They help connect people with the resources they need to thrive.
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What are the best companies a Social Worker can work for?

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CVHCare
Average Salary: $186,875
CVHCare offers rewarding opportunities for Social Workers. With locations in California and New York, this company focuses on providing quality care. Employees work in various settings, including hospitals and community programs. CVHCare values its Social Workers, offering competitive salaries and professional growth.
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Shore Staffing, Inc
Average Salary: $152,821
Shore Staffing, Inc. provides excellent positions for Social Workers. Operating in Florida and California, the company offers diverse roles in healthcare and social services. Shore Staffing, Inc. emphasizes teamwork and offers great benefits. Social Workers here can expect a supportive environment and a fair salary.
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El Camino Health
Average Salary: $127,738
El Camino Health has many job openings for Social Workers. Located in California, this organization is known for its patient-centered care. El Camino Health offers a range of settings, including hospitals and outpatient centers. Their Social Workers receive good salaries and enjoy a positive work culture.
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TheraCare
Average Salary: $125,955
TheraCare offers Social Workers good opportunities to make a difference. This company operates in New York and California, providing care in homes and community settings. TheraCare values its staff and offers a supportive environment. Social Workers here can expect competitive pay and growth opportunities.
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Keck Medicine of USC
Average Salary: $124,922
Keck Medicine of USC has excellent Social Worker positions. Based in California, this organization is known for its top-notch care. Keck Medicine of USC offers diverse roles in hospitals and clinics. Social Workers here enjoy good pay and a strong sense of community.
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John Muir Health
Average Salary: $121,545
John Muir Health provides rewarding jobs for Social Workers. Located in California, this company offers a variety of roles in healthcare settings. John Muir Health values its staff and offers good benefits. Social Workers here can expect fair pay and a supportive work environment.
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TrueCare24
Average Salary: $120,667
TrueCare24 has many job openings for Social Workers. Based in California, this company focuses on home and community care. TrueCare24 offers a range of roles, from hospitals to outpatient centers. Social Workers here enjoy competitive pay and a supportive atmosphere.
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Backstage Health
Average Salary: $120,000
Backstage Health offers Social Workers great career opportunities. Located in California, this company provides diverse roles in healthcare settings. Backstage Health values its staff and offers good benefits. Social Workers here can expect fair pay and a positive work environment.
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Trusted Health
Average Salary: $119,105
Trusted Health has many jobs for Social Workers. This company operates in multiple states, offering roles in various healthcare settings. Trusted Health values its staff and offers good benefits. Social Workers here can expect fair pay and a supportive work environment.
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University of Southern California
Average Salary: $110,199
The University of Southern California offers Social Workers rewarding positions. Based in California, this organization provides roles in research and clinical settings. The University of Southern California values its staff and offers good benefits. Social Workers here can expect fair pay and a supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Social Worker?
Social workers play a critical role in helping individuals and communities. Increasing earnings in this field can mean more job satisfaction and better support for those they serve. Consider these factors to boost your income as a social worker.
First, gaining advanced degrees can lead to higher-paying positions. A master's degree in social work (MSW) often opens doors to roles like clinical social work or school social work. Specializing in areas like mental health or child welfare can also lead to higher pay. Next, obtaining certifications can make you more valuable. For example, becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) can increase job opportunities and salary. Networking with peers and attending professional development workshops can also lead to better-paying roles. Additionally, working in urban areas or regions with high demand for social workers often comes with higher salaries. Finally, choosing a career path in a high-demand setting, such as healthcare or government agencies, can lead to better pay.
Here are five key factors to consider for earning more:
- Earn advanced degrees, such as an MSW.
- Obtain relevant certifications like LCSW.
- Network with other professionals and attend workshops.
- Work in high-demand areas or regions.
- Choose career paths in high-demand settings.



