School Counselor Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median school counselor salary in Tacoma, WA is $66,154 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
School Counselor Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median school counselor salary of $66,154, which is $3,007 below the Washington state average of $69,161. Compared to the national median of $60,140, Tacoma pays above average for this role.
Tacoma's cost of living is 110% 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 Tacoma spans from $42,020 at the 10th percentile to $104,280 at the 90th percentile — a $62,260 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $44,000, while senior school counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $93,500. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
School Counselor Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level school counselor earns around $44,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $93,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $42,020 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,700 |
| Median (50th) | $66,154 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,820 |
| 90th Percentile | $104,280 |
School Counselor Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a School Counselor in Tacoma
Education
Most school counselor positions require a master's degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington 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 Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find School Counselor Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open school counselor positions in Tacoma, WA: