Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Portland, Oregon
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Portland, OR is $59,652 per year, which is 20.0% above the national median and 7.1% above the Oregon state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Portland: What to Expect (2026)
Portland offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $59,652, which is $3,977 above the Oregon state average of $55,675. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Portland pays above average for this role.
However, Portland's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $59,652 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $50,553. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Portland should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for substance abuse counselors in Portland spans from $36,000 at the 10th percentile to $98,400 at the 90th percentile — a $62,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $39,600, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $93,600. As a major metro area with a population of 652,503, Portland typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Portland by Experience
In Portland, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $39,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $93,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Portland, OR
| Percentile | Portland |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,600 |
| Median (50th) | $59,652 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $98,400 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Portland
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Portland and the surrounding Oregon 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 Portland may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Portland
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Portland, OR: