Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Augusta, Georgia
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Augusta, GA is $43,745 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 5.4% below the Georgia state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Augusta: What to Expect (2026)
Augusta offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $43,745, which is $2,485 below the Georgia state average of $46,230. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Augusta pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Augusta's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $43,745 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $49,710 in an average-cost city. This makes Augusta an attractive option for substance abuse counselors seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for substance abuse counselors in Augusta spans from $26,400 at the 10th percentile to $72,160 at the 90th percentile — a $45,760 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,040, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $68,640. With a population of 202,081, Augusta is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Augusta by Experience
In Augusta, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $29,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,640 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Augusta, GA
| Percentile | Augusta |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,440 |
| Median (50th) | $43,745 |
| 75th Percentile | $57,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $72,160 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Augusta
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Augusta and the surrounding Georgia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Augusta may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Augusta
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Augusta, GA: