Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Tacoma, WA is $56,669 per year, which is 14.0% above the national median and 4.2% below the Washington state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $56,669, which is $2,486 below the Washington state average of $59,155. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Tacoma pays above average for this role.
Tacoma's cost of living is 110% 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 Tacoma spans from $34,200 at the 10th percentile to $93,480 at the 90th percentile — a $59,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $37,620, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $88,920. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $37,620, while experienced professionals earn up to $88,920 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,320 |
| Median (50th) | $56,669 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $93,480 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Tacoma
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington 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 Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Tacoma, WA: