How much does a Substance Abuse Counselor make?
Substance abuse counselors play a vital role in helping individuals overcome addiction. Their work is both rewarding and essential. The average yearly salary for a substance abuse counselor is $55,562. This figure can vary based on experience, education, and location.
The salary range for substance abuse counselors shows a broad spectrum of earnings. For example, the lowest 10% earn about $36,450, while the top 10% can make around $89,949. Most counselors fall between these figures, earning between $41,314 and $75,358 annually. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in this career. With more experience and advanced degrees, counselors can earn higher salaries.
What are the highest paying cities for a Substance Abuse Counselor?

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Pueblo, CO
Average Salary: $85,490
In Pueblo, you can help people struggling with addiction. Leading facilities offer supportive environments. Competitive pay and growth opportunities make this a rewarding career choice.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $71,662
Las Vegas offers a vibrant setting for counseling. Many well-known clinics seek skilled professionals. The city’s dynamic lifestyle provides both professional and personal growth.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $70,511
Seattle’s counseling roles provide a blend of urban living and community support. Nonprofits and private clinics are hiring. The city’s progressive approach helps make a real difference.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $69,452
Santa Rosa offers a peaceful environment with a strong community focus. Local organizations value skilled counselors. The area provides a balanced lifestyle with growth potential.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $67,475
Rochester combines healthcare excellence with a caring community. Renowned institutions seek compassionate professionals. The city’s reputation for quality care makes it an attractive place to work.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $67,424
Minneapolis offers diverse opportunities in counseling. Many local clinics and hospitals need dedicated staff. The city’s supportive environment aids in professional development.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $66,682
In Washington, DC, you can influence public health policies. Federal and local agencies hire experienced counselors. The city’s dynamic setting offers both challenges and rewards.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $65,986
Madison provides a balanced work-life environment. Universities and community centers seek qualified professionals. The city’s focus on wellness supports effective counseling practices.
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Tulsa, OK
Average Salary: $65,370
Tulsa offers a friendly community with growing opportunities. Local nonprofits and health centers need dedicated counselors. The area’s strong sense of community fosters meaningful work.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $64,564
Anchorage provides unique challenges and rewards in counseling. Local health services are expanding and need skilled staff. The city’s natural beauty and strong community life make it a rewarding place to work.
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What are the best companies a Substance Abuse Counselor can work for?

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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $100,386
Kaiser Permanente offers Substance Abuse Counselor positions with competitive pay. They have multiple locations across the U.S., including California, Washington, and Colorado. At Kaiser Permanente, counselors work in integrated care settings, providing both individual and group therapy.
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County of Sonoma (CA)
Average Salary: $87,378
The County of Sonoma, located in California, provides Substance Abuse Counselor jobs with a strong average salary. They operate in Sonoma County, serving local communities with a focus on holistic and compassionate care.
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Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation
Average Salary: $77,658
Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation is known for its Substance Abuse Counselor roles. They have multiple locations nationwide, including Minnesota, Florida, and Washington. This organization offers comprehensive addiction treatment and counseling services.
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New York State Office of Mental Health
Average Salary: $72,072
The New York State Office of Mental Health provides Substance Abuse Counselor positions with a solid salary. They operate throughout New York State, focusing on mental health services for the community.
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State of Nevada
Average Salary: $71,787
The State of Nevada offers Substance Abuse Counselor jobs with competitive salaries. They operate across various locations in Nevada, providing essential services to residents.
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Red River Recovery Center
Average Salary: $67,558
Red River Recovery Center provides Substance Abuse Counselor positions with a good salary. They are based in Oklahoma and offer a range of addiction treatment programs.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $65,851
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers Substance Abuse Counselor roles with a respectable salary. They operate across various locations in Massachusetts, focusing on public health services.
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Hickory Recovery Network
Average Salary: $65,719
Hickory Recovery Network offers Substance Abuse Counselor positions with a competitive salary. They have locations in Pennsylvania and Delaware, providing addiction treatment services.
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Oaklawn Psychiatric Center
Average Salary: $65,005
Oaklawn Psychiatric Center provides Substance Abuse Counselor roles with a decent salary. They operate in Indiana, focusing on psychiatric and addiction care.
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Recovery Centers of America
Average Salary: $64,376
Recovery Centers of America offers Substance Abuse Counselor positions with a good salary. They have multiple locations across several states, including New Jersey, Maryland, and Massachusetts.
How to earn more as a Substance Abuse Counselor?
Earning more as a Substance Abuse Counselor involves a mix of education, experience, and strategic career moves. Specializing in areas such as adolescent addiction or dual diagnosis can open up higher-paying opportunities. This specialization requires additional training but pays off in increased demand and higher wages. Networking with other professionals also helps in discovering high-paying positions that may not be advertised widely.
Location plays a significant role in salary levels. Urban areas often offer higher wages to attract qualified counselors. Some states and countries have higher demand for these professionals, leading to more competitive salaries. By considering relocation or working in high-demand areas, counselors can significantly boost their earnings. Lastly, advancing education and obtaining certifications can lead to higher-paying positions. These credentials demonstrate a commitment to the field and can command better compensation.
Here are five factors that can help increase earnings as a Substance Abuse Counselor:
- Obtain specialized training in areas like adolescent addiction or dual diagnosis.
- Network with other professionals to find high-paying positions.
- Consider relocating to urban areas or high-demand regions.
- Advance education through additional certifications or degrees.
- Seek out positions in states or countries with higher demand for counselors.



