Social Worker Salary in Fayetteville, Arkansas
The median social worker salary in Fayetteville, AR is $48,708 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 4.8% above the Arkansas state average.
Social Worker Pay in Fayetteville: What to Expect (2026)
Fayetteville offers a median social worker salary of $48,708, which is $2,214 above the Arkansas state average of $46,494. Compared to the national median of $55,350, Fayetteville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Fayetteville's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $48,708 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $55,350 in an average-cost city. This makes Fayetteville an attractive option for social workers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for social workers in Fayetteville spans from $32,032 at the 10th percentile to $77,264 at the 90th percentile — a $45,232 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,440, while senior social workers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $72,160. Fayetteville is a smaller market (pop. 93,949), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Social Worker Salary in Fayetteville by Experience
In Fayetteville, an entry-level social worker earns around $33,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Fayetteville, AR
| Percentile | Fayetteville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,032 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,896 |
| Median (50th) | $48,708 |
| 75th Percentile | $61,952 |
| 90th Percentile | $77,264 |
Social Worker Salary in Other Arkansas Cities
How to Become a Social Worker in Fayetteville
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Fayetteville and the surrounding Arkansas area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Fayetteville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Social Worker Jobs in Fayetteville
Browse open social worker positions in Fayetteville, AR: