Healthcare Boston, MA Pop. 675,647

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Boston, Massachusetts

The median substance abuse counselor salary in Boston, MA is $79,536 per year, which is 60.0% above the national median and 11.9% above the Massachusetts state average.

City Median
$79,536
vs State Avg
+$8,451
vs National
+$29,826
Cost of Living
152%

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Boston by Experience

In Boston, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $52,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $124,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 152% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$52,800
+$19,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$81,600
+$30,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$124,800
+$46,800 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Boston, MA

Percentile Boston
10th Percentile $48,000
25th Percentile $60,800
Median (50th) $79,536
75th Percentile $104,000
90th Percentile $131,200

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Massachusetts Cities

How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Boston

Education

Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Boston and the surrounding Massachusetts 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 Boston may vary based on local industry and population growth.