Social Worker Salaries
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 salary for social workers can vary based on experience and location. On average, a social worker earns about $62,825 per year. This is a good salary for those who want to help others.
Social workers can earn more as they gain experience. Here are some average salaries for different years of experience:
- 0-1 years: $32,000
- 1-3 years: $40,138
- 3-5 years: $48,277
- 5-7 years: $56,416
- 7-10 years: $64,554
- 10-15 years: $72,692
- 15-20 years: $80,831
- 20+ years: $121,524
What are the highest paying cities for a Social Worker?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $88,936
In Seattle, professionals help people in need through various programs. Many work for organizations like United Way or the City of Seattle. The city offers a supportive environment for those dedicated to community service.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $86,600
San Jose offers many opportunities for those who want to assist others. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and the County of Santa Clara provide various roles. The city values social work and offers a range of programs to support residents.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $81,678
Vallejo provides a chance to make a difference in the community. Local agencies and non-profits offer many roles. The city's focus on social services creates a rewarding environment for dedicated workers.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $80,549
San Francisco is a vibrant city with many opportunities for social service professionals. Working for organizations like the City and County of San Francisco can be very fulfilling. The city's diverse population offers unique challenges and rewards.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $80,292
In Santa Rosa, social service workers find many opportunities to help others. Local agencies and non-profits offer various roles. The city's commitment to community well-being creates a supportive environment for those in the field.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $79,650
Washington, DC, offers a dynamic environment for those in the social service field. Working for federal agencies or local non-profits can be very rewarding. The city's diverse population and political environment provide unique opportunities.
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Provo, UT
Average Salary: $77,765
Provo offers a chance to help others in a community-focused environment. Local agencies and non-profits provide many roles. The city's strong sense of community makes it a great place for social workers.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $76,958
Spokane provides many opportunities for those who want to assist others. Working for organizations like the City of Spokane or local non-profits can be very rewarding. The city's focus on community well-being creates a supportive environment.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $76,454
Boston offers a rich environment for social service professionals. Working for organizations like the City of Boston or local non-profits can be very fulfilling. The city's history and diverse population provide unique challenges and rewards.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $75,382
Los Angeles provides many opportunities for those who want to help others. Working for large agencies or local non-profits can be very rewarding. The city's diverse population and large scale offer unique challenges and rewards.
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What are the best companies a Social Worker can work for?

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Shore Staffing, Inc
Average Salary: $152,686
Shore Staffing, Inc. offers rewarding Social Worker positions. They work in various locations, including New York, California, and Texas. Their roles focus on providing support and care for individuals and families.
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Beautiful Minds
Average Salary: $145,419
Beautiful Minds provides excellent Social Worker jobs. They operate in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami. The company emphasizes mental health and community support, offering a fulfilling work environment.
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Genie Healthcare
Average Salary: $129,117
Genie Healthcare has competitive Social Worker salaries. They work in major cities such as San Francisco, Boston, and Seattle. Their roles involve helping clients with social and emotional challenges, making a real difference.
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Genius Therapy
Average Salary: $125,000
Genius Therapy offers a high average salary for Social Workers. They operate in cities like Denver, Atlanta, and Phoenix. Their positions focus on providing therapy and support to those in need.
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TheraCare
Average Salary: $125,000
TheraCare provides rewarding Social Worker jobs. They work in locations such as Philadelphia, Minneapolis, and San Diego. Their roles involve helping clients with various social and emotional issues.
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Clover Health Services
Average Salary: $121,421
Clover Health Services offers competitive Social Worker salaries. They operate in cities like New Jersey, Florida, and Illinois. Their positions focus on providing care and support to individuals and families.
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El Camino Health
Average Salary: $119,986
El Camino Health provides excellent Social Worker jobs. They work in cities such as San Jose and Palo Alto. Their roles involve helping clients with social and emotional challenges, making a real difference.
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TrueCare24
Average Salary: $115,745
TrueCare24 offers rewarding Social Worker positions. They operate in cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin. Their roles focus on providing support and care for individuals and families.
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CAMBAY CONSULTING
Average Salary: $114,716
CAMBAY CONSULTING provides competitive Social Worker salaries. They work in major cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Their roles involve helping clients with social and emotional challenges, making a real difference.
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Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center
Average Salary: $110,883
Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center offers rewarding Social Worker jobs. They operate in Thousand Oaks, California. Their roles focus on providing care and support to patients and their families.
How to earn more as a Social Worker?
Social workers play a vital role in helping individuals and communities. They often work hard to improve people's lives. Increasing your earning potential can provide more job satisfaction and financial security. Here are some ways to earn more as a social worker.
First, gaining advanced degrees can lead to higher salaries. A master's degree in social work (MSW) is often required. Some employers prefer candidates with a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) or a Ph.D. in social work. These advanced degrees can open doors to higher-paying positions. They can also lead to roles in administration or specialized fields.
Second, gaining certifications can boost your earnings. Certifications in areas like clinical social work or school social work can make you more valuable. They can also lead to higher-paying jobs. Certifications show that you have specialized skills and knowledge. They can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
Third, gaining experience in high-demand areas can lead to higher pay. Working in areas like healthcare, child welfare, or mental health can offer better salaries. These fields often have a higher need for social workers. They also offer more opportunities for advancement. Gaining experience in these areas can make you more attractive to employers.
Fourth, seeking leadership roles can increase your income. Positions like social work manager or director often pay more. These roles require additional responsibilities. They also require leadership skills. Taking on these roles can lead to higher salaries and more job satisfaction.
Fifth, negotiating your salary can make a difference. Research the average salary for your position and experience level. Use this information to negotiate a higher salary. Be confident and prepared to discuss your value to the employer. Effective negotiation can lead to a better-paying job.
In summary, there are several ways to increase your earnings as a social worker. Gaining advanced degrees, certifications, experience in high-demand areas, leadership roles, and effective salary negotiation can all lead to higher pay. These steps can help you achieve your financial goals and job satisfaction.