Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Charleston, South Carolina
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Charleston, SC is $49,710 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the South Carolina state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Charleston: What to Expect (2026)
Charleston offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $49,710, which is $5,468 above the South Carolina state average of $44,242. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Charleston pays above average for this role.
Charleston's cost of living is 100% 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 Charleston spans from $30,000 at the 10th percentile to $82,000 at the 90th percentile — a $52,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,000, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $78,000. With a population of 150,227, Charleston is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Charleston by Experience
In Charleston, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $33,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Charleston, SC
| Percentile | Charleston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,000 |
| Median (50th) | $49,710 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $82,000 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Charleston
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Charleston and the surrounding South 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 Charleston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Charleston
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Charleston, SC: