Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Jersey City, New Jersey
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Jersey City, NJ is $66,114 per year, which is 33.0% above the national median and 10.8% above the New Jersey state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Jersey City: What to Expect (2026)
Jersey City offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $66,114, which is $6,462 above the New Jersey state average of $59,652. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Jersey City pays above average for this role.
However, Jersey City's cost of living index is 128%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $66,114 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $51,652. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Jersey City should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for substance abuse counselors in Jersey City spans from $39,900 at the 10th percentile to $109,060 at the 90th percentile — a $69,160 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $43,890, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $103,740. With a population of 292,449, Jersey City is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Jersey City by Experience
In Jersey City, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $43,890, while experienced professionals earn up to $103,740 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Jersey City, NJ
| Percentile | Jersey City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $39,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,540 |
| Median (50th) | $66,114 |
| 75th Percentile | $86,450 |
| 90th Percentile | $109,060 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other New Jersey Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Jersey City
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Jersey City and the surrounding New Jersey 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 Jersey City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Jersey City
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Jersey City, NJ: