How much does a Student Success Counselor make?
A Student Success Counselor helps students achieve their educational goals. It's a meaningful job with a good salary. On average, a Student Success Counselor makes about $53,058 a year. This job pays well, especially for those just starting out. Many counselors make between $34,000 and $48,000 in their first few years.
Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the type of institution. Counselors in larger cities or private schools often earn more. With more experience, a counselor's salary can go higher. The highest earners make over $100,000 a year. This job offers a good salary and the chance to make a real difference in students' lives.
What are the highest paying cities for a Student Success Counselor?

-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $82,199
In Chicago, professionals guide students toward their academic goals. Many work with schools and universities, helping students navigate their education. Large educational institutions in the city offer many opportunities.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $74,456
Seattle offers a dynamic environment for those who love education. Here, you'll find numerous schools and tech companies. Working with tech giants gives you a unique edge in student support.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $70,314
Los Angeles provides a vibrant setting for educational guidance. Many work with local colleges and universities, helping students from diverse backgrounds. The entertainment industry offers interesting career crossovers.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $69,438
San Diego presents a lively atmosphere for those in student guidance. The city’s educational institutions thrive on innovation. Working with a range of schools allows for diverse experiences.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $66,630
In Honolulu, you'll enjoy a relaxed setting while supporting students. The city’s unique environment enriches educational experiences. Local colleges offer a close-knit community feel.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in Honolulu, HI
-
Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $64,030
Fresno provides a supportive community for educational guidance. Many work with local colleges and universities. The city’s focus on agriculture and technology offers interesting career paths.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in Fresno, CA
-
Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $64,028
Fort Collins offers a friendly environment for educational support. The city’s colleges and universities value community involvement. Working here provides a great work-life balance.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in Fort Collins, CO
-
Fort Wayne, IN
Average Salary: $63,222
In Fort Wayne, you'll find a close-knit community for student guidance. Many work with local schools and universities. The city’s strong emphasis on education creates many opportunities.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in Fort Wayne, IN
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $60,823
Boston provides a rich setting for educational guidance. Many work with the city’s prestigious universities. The historical and academic environment offers a unique experience.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in Boston, MA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $60,678
Washington, DC, offers a dynamic environment for those in student guidance. Many work with government institutions and universities. The political and educational setting provides a unique career path.
Find Student Success Counselor jobs in Washington, DC
What are the best companies a Student Success Counselor can work for?

-
University of California Los Angeles
Average Salary: $80,424
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers rewarding Student Success Counselor roles. With campuses across the nation, UCLA places a high value on student success. Counselors support students in navigating college life, academic challenges, and career development.
-
University of California Berkeley
Average Salary: $75,641
The University of California, Berkeley offers competitive salaries for Student Success Counselors. UC Berkeley provides a prestigious environment where counselors work with students to achieve their academic goals. The university operates in Berkeley, California.
-
California State University, San Bernardino
Average Salary: $75,050
California State University, San Bernardino, provides strong compensation for Student Success Counselors. The university focuses on student success with dedicated support services. It is located in San Bernardino, California.
-
San Diego State University
Average Salary: $74,246
San Diego State University offers a supportive environment for Student Success Counselors, with a focus on student retention and success. Located in San Diego, California, the university provides diverse opportunities for counselors.
-
University of Southern California
Average Salary: $66,441
The University of Southern California (USC) offers significant roles for Student Success Counselors. USC emphasizes academic and personal growth, providing a nurturing environment for students. The university is in Los Angeles, California.
-
California State University Fullerton
Average Salary: $64,441
California State University, Fullerton, offers rewarding roles for Student Success Counselors. The university focuses on student success and provides various support services. It is located in Fullerton, California.
-
Dallas College
Average Salary: $63,867
Dallas College offers competitive salaries for Student Success Counselors. The college provides a supportive learning environment and focuses on student success. It is located in Dallas, Texas.
-
Greenville Technical College
Average Salary: $56,391
Greenville Technical College offers supportive roles for Student Success Counselors. The college provides various resources to help students succeed. It is located in Greenville, South Carolina.
-
University of Arizona
Average Salary: $54,219
The University of Arizona offers rewarding roles for Student Success Counselors. The university focuses on student success and provides various support services. It is located in Tucson, Arizona.
-
Washington State University
Average Salary: $54,195
Washington State University offers supportive roles for Student Success Counselors. The university focuses on student success and provides various resources. It is located in Pullman, Washington.
How to earn more as a Student Success Counselor?
A Student Success Counselor plays a key role in guiding students toward their academic goals. Increasing your earnings in this field can be achieved through various avenues. Building expertise and expanding skills can lead to higher salaries. Networking and gaining recommendations from peers can open up higher-paying positions. Securing additional certifications related to student counseling can also boost income.
Furthermore, taking on leadership roles within educational institutions can provide more responsibility and a higher salary. Engaging in continuing education to stay updated with the latest trends in student success can make a counselor more valuable. Below are five factors that can help a Student Success Counselor earn more:
- Advanced Certifications: Obtaining certifications in areas like college advising or mental health can enhance your credentials.
- Leadership Experience: Taking on roles such as a program director or coordinator can lead to higher pay.
- Continuing Education: Attending workshops and seminars to stay current with new student success strategies.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities that pay more.
- Specialized Skills: Gaining skills in areas like data analysis or program development can increase your value.



