Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Norfolk, Virginia
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Norfolk, VA is $48,716 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 7.5% below the Virginia state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Norfolk: What to Expect (2026)
Norfolk offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $48,716, which is $3,977 below the Virginia state average of $52,693. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Norfolk pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Norfolk's cost of living is 96% 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 Norfolk spans from $29,400 at the 10th percentile to $80,360 at the 90th percentile — a $50,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,340, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $76,440. With a population of 238,005, Norfolk is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Norfolk by Experience
In Norfolk, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $32,340, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,440 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Norfolk, VA
| Percentile | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,240 |
| Median (50th) | $48,716 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,700 |
| 90th Percentile | $80,360 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Norfolk
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Norfolk and the surrounding Virginia 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 Norfolk may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Norfolk
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Norfolk, VA: