School Counselor Salary in Athens, Georgia
The median school counselor salary in Athens, GA is $54,126 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.2% below the Georgia state average.
School Counselor Pay in Athens: What to Expect (2026)
Athens offers a median school counselor salary of $54,126, which is $1,804 below the Georgia state average of $55,930. Compared to the national median of $60,140, Athens pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Athens's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for school counselors in Athens spans from $34,380 at the 10th percentile to $85,320 at the 90th percentile — a $50,940 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,000, while senior school counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $76,500. With a population of 127,064, Athens is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
School Counselor Salary in Athens by Experience
In Athens, an entry-level school counselor earns around $36,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Athens, GA
| Percentile | Athens |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,380 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,300 |
| Median (50th) | $54,126 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,580 |
| 90th Percentile | $85,320 |
School Counselor Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a School Counselor in Athens
Education
Most school counselor positions require a master's degree. Athens and the surrounding Georgia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, school counselor employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Athens may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find School Counselor Jobs in Athens
Browse open school counselor positions in Athens, GA: