Healthcare San Diego, CA Pop. 1,386,932

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in San Diego, California

The median substance abuse counselor salary in San Diego, CA is $74,565 per year, which is 50.0% above the national median and 2.7% above the California state average.

City Median
$74,565
vs State Avg
+$1,988
vs National
+$24,855
Cost of Living
142%

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in San Diego by Experience

In San Diego, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $49,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $117,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 142% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$49,500
+$16,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$76,500
+$25,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$117,000
+$39,000 vs national

Salary Percentiles in San Diego, CA

Percentile San Diego
10th Percentile $45,000
25th Percentile $57,000
Median (50th) $74,565
75th Percentile $97,500
90th Percentile $123,000

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other California Cities

How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in San Diego

Education

Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. San Diego and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Addiction CounselingCBT/MIGroup TherapyCrisis InterventionDocumentationEmpathy

Job Outlook

Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in San Diego may vary based on local industry and population growth.