Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in San Antonio, Texas
The median substance abuse counselor salary in San Antonio, TX is $44,739 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 4.3% below the Texas state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in San Antonio: What to Expect (2026)
San Antonio offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $44,739, which is $1,988 below the Texas state average of $46,727. Compared to the national median of $49,710, San Antonio pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of San Antonio's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $44,739 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $50,840 in an average-cost city. This makes San Antonio an attractive option for substance abuse counselors seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for substance abuse counselors in San Antonio spans from $27,000 at the 10th percentile to $73,800 at the 90th percentile — a $46,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,700, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $70,200. As a major metro area with a population of 1,434,625, San Antonio typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in San Antonio by Experience
In San Antonio, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $29,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $70,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in San Antonio, TX
| Percentile | San Antonio |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,200 |
| Median (50th) | $44,739 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,800 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in San Antonio
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. San Antonio 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 San Antonio may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in San Antonio
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in San Antonio, TX: