Social Worker Salary in Missouri
The median social worker salary in Missouri is $48,708 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $55,350.
Social Worker Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for social worker compensation. Social Worker salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $48,708 per year, social workers in Missouri earn $6,642 less than the national median of $55,350.
A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $48,708 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $55,350 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Missouri is significant: social workers at the 10th percentile earn $32,032, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $77,264 — a $45,232 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $50,922.
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 Missouri by Experience
In Missouri, an entry-level social worker earns around $33,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,160 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Missouri
| Percentile | MO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,032 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,896 |
| Median (50th) | $48,708 |
| 75th Percentile | $61,952 |
| 90th Percentile | $77,264 |
Social Worker Salary by City in Missouri
The largest employment areas for social workers in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Social Worker in Missouri
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Missouri
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Missouri's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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