School Counselor Salary in Buffalo, New York
The median school counselor salary in Buffalo, NY is $55,329 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 24.6% below the New York state average.
School Counselor Pay in Buffalo: What to Expect (2026)
Buffalo offers a median school counselor salary of $55,329, which is $18,042 below the New York state average of $73,371. Compared to the national median of $60,140, Buffalo pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Buffalo's cost of living is 92% 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 Buffalo spans from $35,144 at the 10th percentile to $87,216 at the 90th percentile — a $52,072 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,800, while senior school counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $78,200. With a population of 278,349, Buffalo is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
School Counselor Salary in Buffalo by Experience
In Buffalo, an entry-level school counselor earns around $36,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Buffalo, NY
| Percentile | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,144 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,240 |
| Median (50th) | $55,329 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,104 |
| 90th Percentile | $87,216 |
School Counselor Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a School Counselor in Buffalo
Education
Most school counselor positions require a master's degree. Buffalo and the surrounding New York 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 Buffalo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find School Counselor Jobs in Buffalo
Browse open school counselor positions in Buffalo, NY: