Healthcare Virginia Beach, VA Pop. 449,974

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Virginia Beach, Virginia

The median substance abuse counselor salary in Virginia Beach, VA is $51,698 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median and 1.9% below the Virginia state average.

City Median
$51,698
vs State Avg
$-995
vs National
+$1,988
Cost of Living
102%

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Virginia Beach by Experience

In Virginia Beach, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $34,320, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,120 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$34,320
+$1,320 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$53,040
+$2,040 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$81,120
+$3,120 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Virginia Beach, VA

Percentile Virginia Beach
10th Percentile $31,200
25th Percentile $39,520
Median (50th) $51,698
75th Percentile $67,600
90th Percentile $85,280

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Virginia Cities

How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Virginia Beach

Education

Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Virginia Beach and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Addiction CounselingCBT/MIGroup TherapyCrisis InterventionDocumentationEmpathy

Job Outlook

Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Virginia Beach may vary based on local industry and population growth.