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School Guidance Counselor Salary in the United States

How much does a School Guidance Counselor make in the United States?

As of October 01, 2026, the average salary for a School Guidance Counselor in the United States is $48,020 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.

However, a School Guidance Counselor's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $60,877
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $43,180 to $54,750
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $38,773

Key Factors That Influence School Guidance Counselor Salaries

A School 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 School 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: $60,570
  • San Francisco: $59,900
  • Oakland: $58,640

School Guidance Counselor Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

School Guidance Counselor salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $49,567. While startup companies pay approximate $42,364.

School Guidance Counselor Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $42,364
Growth Stage 51~500 $44,698
Established 501~5000 $47,972
Enterprise 5000+ $49,567

School Guidance Counselor Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For School 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, School Guidance Counselor positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view School Guidance Counselor as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industry for a School Guidance Counselor

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit$52,822$25.010%

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

Understanding how a School 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
$43,180
Average $48,020/year
$54,750
$3,598
Average $4,002/month
$4,563
$830
Average $923/week
$1,053
$21
Average $23/hour
$26
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $54,750 $4,563 $1,053 $26
Average $48,020 $4,002 $923 $23
25th Percentile $43,180 $3,598 $830 $21

School Guidance Counselor Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a School Guidance Counselor, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

School Guidance Counselor Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
College/University Student Career Counselor $51,700 8%
College/University Student Counselor $60,800 27%
Exchange Student Programs Advisor $48,800 2%

Most common benefits for School Guidance Counselor

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

Common company salaries for School Guidance Counselor

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

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FAQ about School Guidance Counselor

1. Do school counselors get summers off?

School counselors typically work full-time during the academic year and often have summers off, along with other school holidays. During the summer, they may engage in part-time guidance roles or pursue continuing education. Their salaries range from $53,360 to $67,250, with a mid-salary of $60,570, reflecting their important role in student support.

2. How long is a master's in school counseling?

A typical master's in school counseling program takes two years for full-time students. If you have prior graduate credits or enroll in an accelerated program, you may complete it sooner. Part-time options for working professionals may extend the duration by an additional year. School guidance counselors earn between $53,360 and $67,250 annually, with a median salary of $60,570.

3. How much do high school guidance counselors make in the US?

High school guidance counselors in the US earn between $53,360 and $67,250, with a median salary of $60,570. The top 25% can earn more, while the lowest 25% make around $53,360. Salary can vary based on experience, location, and school district.

4. What classes do I need to take to become a guidance counselor?

To become a guidance counselor, you typically need to take courses such as Fundamental Counseling Skills, Counseling Theories, Introduction to Educational Research, Group Counseling, Diagnosis and Assessment, Family and Couples Counseling, Counseling Children and Adolescents, and Social Justice in Professional Practice. The salary for school guidance counselors ranges from $53,360 to $67,250, with a median salary of $60,570.

5. Are school guidance counselors happy?

On average, school guidance counselors rate the meaningfulness of their work a 3.7/5. With salaries ranging from $53,360 to $67,250, many find their compensation aligns with their passion for helping students. This sense of purpose likely contributes to their overall job satisfaction and is a key reason individuals pursue this career.

6. Why are school counselors leaving the profession?

School counselors may leave the profession due to chronic fatigue, depersonalization, or feelings of hopelessness. The rigidity of school systems and limited support contribute to these challenges. With salaries ranging from $53,360 to $67,250, many may find the compensation insufficient to offset the emotional and professional demands of the role.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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