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Hourly Wage for Guidance Counselor Salary in the United States

What is the highest and lowest hourly pay for Guidance Counselor?

As of October 01, 2026, the average hourly rate for a Guidance Counselor in the United States is $23, which translates to an annual salary of about $48,100.

However, the hourly wage can vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s a detailed look at the typical pay range per hour:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $29 per hour
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $21 to $26 per hour
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $19 per hour

Key Factors That Influence Guidance Counselor Salaries

A Guidance Counselor's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

Top Paying Cities for Guidance Counselors

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $60,600
  • San Francisco: $59,900
  • Oakland: $58,700

Guidance Counselor Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Guidance Counselor salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $49,650. While startup companies pay approximate $42,435.

Guidance Counselor Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $42,435
Growth Stage 51~500 $44,772
Established 501~5000 $48,052
Enterprise 5000+ $49,650

Guidance Counselor Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For Guidance Counselor roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 0% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit, offers compensation 10% above the average. Conversely, Guidance Counselor positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Guidance Counselor as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industry for a Guidance Counselor

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit$52,910$25.010%

Guidance Counselor Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Guidance Counselor's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on October 01, 2026
$43,200
Average $48,100/year
$54,800
$3,600
Average $4,008/month
$4,567
$831
Average $925/week
$1,054
$21
Average $23/hour
$26
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $54,800 $4,567 $1,054 $26
Average $48,100 $4,008 $925 $23
25th Percentile $43,200 $3,600 $831 $21

Most common benefits for Guidance Counselor

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Guidance Counselor

Here are companies hiring for Guidance Counselor and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Guidance Counselor

1. How much is the salary of a guidance counselor in the USA?

The salary of a guidance counselor in the USA typically ranges from a minimum of $53,400 to a maximum of $67,300, with a median salary around $60,600. This reflects the varying levels of experience and location within the profession.

2. Is school counseling a stressful job?

School counseling can indeed be a stressful job. Counselors often face demanding situations daily, which can contribute to their stress levels. With salaries ranging from $53,400 to $67,300, the financial aspect may also add to the pressure, as they strive to support students while managing their own well-being.

3. Can you make 6 figures as a counselor?

While the average salary for a Guidance Counselor ranges from $53,400 to $67,300, achieving a six-figure income is possible with a strategic plan and dedication. With the right support and persistence, you can build a successful private practice that may exceed these averages over time.

4. What are guidance counselors called now?

The term guidance counselor has evolved to school counselor to better reflect the expanded scope of their duties. While some institutions still use the older term, the American School Counselor Association advocates for school counselor. In terms of salary, school counselors can expect to earn between $53,400 and $67,300, with a median salary of $60,600.

5. Do counselors make 6 figures?

Counselors typically do not make six figures, as the salary range for guidance counselors is between $53,400 and $67,300, with a mid-salary of $60,600. While it's possible to earn more in private practice, achieving a six-figure income requires careful planning, support, and time to build a successful practice.

6. Is a high school guidance counselor a good job?

A high school guidance counselor can be a rewarding career. With a salary range from $53,400 to $67,300, it offers financial stability while allowing you to make a significant impact on students' lives. As Gail M. Smith, a retired school counseling director, notes, We get to work with students and see them achieve, highlighting the profession's fulfilling nature.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons are derived from both employer job postings and third-party data sources. We also provide multiple percentiles of salary information for your reference, click here to know Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial to Getting Pay Equity Right. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.

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