Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Kansas
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Kansas is $43,248 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in Kansas (2026)
Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Substance Abuse Counselor salaries in Kansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $43,248 per year, substance abuse counselors in Kansas earn $6,462 less than the national median of $49,710.
A key advantage of working in Kansas is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $43,248 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,710 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kansas is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $26,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $71,340 — a $45,240 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Kansas for this role is Overland Park, where the median reaches $47,722.
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 Kansas and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Kansas by Experience
In Kansas, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $28,710, while experienced professionals earn up to $67,860 per year. The cost of living index in Kansas is 87% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Kansas
| Percentile | KS Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,060 |
| Median (50th) | $43,248 |
| 75th Percentile | $56,550 |
| 90th Percentile | $71,340 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in Kansas
The largest employment areas for substance abuse counselors in Kansas include Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, and Topeka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Kansas
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Kansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kansas
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Kansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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