Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Covington, Kentucky
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Covington, KY is $43,745 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% above the Kentucky state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Covington: What to Expect (2026)
Covington offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $43,745, which is $497 above the Kentucky state average of $43,248. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Covington pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Covington'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 Covington an attractive option for substance abuse counselors seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for substance abuse counselors in Covington 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. Covington is a smaller market (pop. 40,961), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Covington by Experience
In Covington, 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 Covington, KY
| Percentile | Covington |
|---|---|
| 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 Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Covington
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Covington and the surrounding Kentucky 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 Covington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Covington
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Covington, KY: