Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Virginia
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Virginia is $52,693 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for substance abuse counselor pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $52,693 per year, substance abuse counselors in Virginia earn $2,983 more than the national median of $49,710.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning substance abuse counselor salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $31,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $86,920 — a $55,120 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Virginia for this role is Arlington, where the median reaches $66,611.
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 Virginia and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $34,980, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,680 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Virginia
| Percentile | VA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,280 |
| Median (50th) | $52,693 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $86,920 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for substance abuse counselors in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Virginia
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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