Social Worker Salary in Hawaii
The median social worker salary in Hawaii is $94,095 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $55,350.
Social Worker Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for social worker compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for social workers seeking high pay. At $94,095 per year, social workers in Hawaii earn $38,745 more than the national median of $55,350.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $94,095 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $55,350.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: social workers at the 10th percentile earn $61,880, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $149,260 — a $87,380 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 $96,863.
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for social workers across the country.
Social Worker Salary in Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level social worker earns around $64,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $139,400 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $61,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,140 |
| Median (50th) | $94,095 |
| 75th Percentile | $119,680 |
| 90th Percentile | $149,260 |
Social Worker Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for social workers 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 Social Worker in Hawaii
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% 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 Social Workers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $45,305 over your career trajectory.
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