Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Vermont
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Vermont is $51,201 per year, which is 3.0% above the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in Vermont (2026)
Vermont ranks #16 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Vermont falls in the middle of the pack for substance abuse counselor pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $51,201 per year, substance abuse counselors in Vermont earn $1,491 more than the national median of $49,710.
Vermont's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning substance abuse counselor salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Vermont is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $30,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $84,460 — a $53,560 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Vermont for this role is Burlington, where the median reaches $55,675.
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Vermont and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Vermont by Experience
In Vermont, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $33,990, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,340 per year. The cost of living index in Vermont is 101% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Vermont
| Percentile | VT Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,140 |
| Median (50th) | $51,201 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,950 |
| 90th Percentile | $84,460 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in Vermont
The largest employment areas for substance abuse counselors in Vermont include Burlington, Essex, South Burlington, and Colchester. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Vermont
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Vermont has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Vermont
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Vermont's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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