Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Austin, Texas
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Austin, TX is $53,190 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 13.8% above the Texas state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Austin: What to Expect (2026)
Austin offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $53,190, which is $6,463 above the Texas state average of $46,727. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Austin pays above average for this role.
Austin's cost of living is 105% 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 Austin spans from $32,100 at the 10th percentile to $87,740 at the 90th percentile — a $55,640 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,310, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $83,460. As a major metro area with a population of 978,908, Austin typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Austin by Experience
In Austin, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $35,310, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,460 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Austin, TX
| Percentile | Austin |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,660 |
| Median (50th) | $53,190 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,550 |
| 90th Percentile | $87,740 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Austin
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Austin and the surrounding Texas 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 Austin may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Austin
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Austin, TX: