School Counselor Salary in Hawaii
The median school counselor salary in Hawaii is $102,238 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $60,140.
School Counselor Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for school counselor compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for school counselors seeking high pay. At $102,238 per year, school counselors in Hawaii earn $42,098 more than the national median of $60,140.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $102,238 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $60,140.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: school counselors at the 10th percentile earn $64,940, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $161,160 — a $96,220 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $105,245.
Nationally, school counselor employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for school counselors across the country.
School Counselor Salary in Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level school counselor earns around $68,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $144,500 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $64,940 |
| 25th Percentile | $79,900 |
| Median (50th) | $102,238 |
| 75th Percentile | $129,540 |
| 90th Percentile | $161,160 |
School Counselor Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for school counselors in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a School Counselor in Hawaii
Education
Most school counselor positions require a master's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, school counselor employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows School Counselors who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $42,262 over your career trajectory.
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