Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Richmond, Virginia
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Richmond, VA is $50,704 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 3.8% below the Virginia state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Richmond: What to Expect (2026)
Richmond offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $50,704, which is $1,989 below the Virginia state average of $52,693. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Richmond pays above average for this role.
Richmond's cost of living is 100% 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 Richmond spans from $30,600 at the 10th percentile to $83,640 at the 90th percentile — a $53,040 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,660, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $79,560. With a population of 226,610, Richmond is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Richmond by Experience
In Richmond, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $33,660, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,560 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Richmond, VA
| Percentile | Richmond |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,760 |
| Median (50th) | $50,704 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,640 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Richmond
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Richmond 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 Richmond may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Richmond
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Richmond, VA: