Healthcare Paterson, NJ Pop. 159,732

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Paterson, New Jersey

The median substance abuse counselor salary in Paterson, NJ is $54,681 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 8.3% below the New Jersey state average.

City Median
$54,681
vs State Avg
$-4,971
vs National
+$4,971
Cost of Living
105%

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Paterson by Experience

In Paterson, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $36,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $85,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,300
+$3,300 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$56,100
+$5,100 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$85,800
+$7,800 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ

Percentile Paterson
10th Percentile $33,000
25th Percentile $41,800
Median (50th) $54,681
75th Percentile $71,500
90th Percentile $90,200

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other New Jersey Cities

How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Paterson

Education

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