Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Raleigh, NC is $48,716 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $48,716, which is $2,983 above the North Carolina state average of $45,733. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Raleigh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Raleigh's cost of living is 98% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for substance abuse counselors in Raleigh spans from $29,400 at the 10th percentile to $80,360 at the 90th percentile — a $50,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,340, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $76,440. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $32,340, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,440 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,240 |
| Median (50th) | $48,716 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,700 |
| 90th Percentile | $80,360 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Raleigh
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Raleigh and the surrounding North Carolina 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 Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Raleigh, NC: