School Counselor Salary in Paterson, New Jersey
The median school counselor salary in Paterson, NJ is $63,147 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 8.7% below the New Jersey state average.
School Counselor Pay in Paterson: What to Expect (2026)
Paterson offers a median school counselor salary of $63,147, which is $6,014 below the New Jersey state average of $69,161. Compared to the national median of $60,140, Paterson pays above average for this role.
Paterson's cost of living is 105% 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 Paterson spans from $40,110 at the 10th percentile to $99,540 at the 90th percentile — a $59,430 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $42,000, while senior school counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $89,250. With a population of 159,732, Paterson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
School Counselor Salary in Paterson by Experience
In Paterson, an entry-level school counselor earns around $42,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,250 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ
| Percentile | Paterson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $40,110 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,350 |
| Median (50th) | $63,147 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,010 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,540 |
School Counselor Salary in Other New Jersey Cities
How to Become a School Counselor in Paterson
Education
Most school counselor positions require a master's degree. Paterson and the surrounding New Jersey 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 Paterson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find School Counselor Jobs in Paterson
Browse open school counselor positions in Paterson, NJ: