As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Social Service Counselor in District of Columbia is $69,108 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $33.
However, a Social Service Counselor's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Social Service Counselor's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Social Service Counselor's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Social Service Counselor | $66,494 |
| Intermediate Level Social Service Counselor | $67,017 |
| Senior Level Social Service Counselor | $70,275 |
| Specialist Level Social Service Counselor | $73,880 |
| Expert Level Social Service Counselor | $74,523 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Social Service Counselors. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Social Service Counselor roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 20% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, Healthcare., offers compensation 5% above the average. Conversely, Social Service Counselor positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Social Service Counselor as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare. | $72,564 | $35.0 | 5% |
Understanding how a Social Service 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 August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Social Service Counselor job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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