Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Delaware
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Delaware is $51,201 per year, which is 3.0% above the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for substance abuse counselor pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $51,201 per year, substance abuse counselors in Delaware earn $1,491 more than the national median of $49,710.
Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning substance abuse counselor salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Delaware is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $30,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $84,460 — a $53,560 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Delaware for this role is Wilmington, where the median reaches $53,190.
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Delaware and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Delaware by Experience
In Delaware, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $33,990, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,340 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.
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Earning $51,201? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Delaware
| Percentile | DE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,140 |
| Median (50th) | $51,201 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,950 |
| 90th Percentile | $84,460 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in Delaware
The largest employment areas for substance abuse counselors in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Delaware
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Delaware has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Delaware
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Delaware's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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