Mental Health Counselor Salary in New York
Based on 27K+ workers in New York
Median Annual Salary (NY)
$59,450
$28.58/hr
vs National Average
$59,385
+0.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$42K – $91K
27K employed in New York
The median salary for a Mental Health Counselor in New York is $59,450 per year, or approximately $29 per hour. This figure is slightly higher than the national average, reflecting the state's demand for mental health services. Overall, the employment outlook for these professionals in New York is robust.
Several factors influence the Mental Health Counselor salary in New York. Experience level plays a significant role, with seasoned professionals earning more than those just starting out. The specific setting of employment, such as a private practice versus a large hospital, and the geographic location within New York can also impact earning potential, along with advanced certifications.
Salary Distribution — Mental Health Counselor in New York
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $42,410 |
| 25th percentile | $48,160 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $59,450 |
| 75th percentile | $73,710 |
| 90th percentile | $90,590 |
Top-Paying Industries for Mental Health Counselor (U.S.)
Which industries pay Mental Health Counselors the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Mental Health Counselors in New York tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $80,880 | 1K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $66,530 | 35K |
| Educational Services | $62,070 | 35K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $60,480 | 5K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $60,460 | 3K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Mental Health Counselor in New York vs National
| Year | Median Salary (New York) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,450 |
| 2026 (projected) | $61,234 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | New York Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,450 | $59,385 |
| 2026 (projected) | $61,234 | $61,167 |
Mental Health Counselor Salary by Experience Level in New York
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $48,160 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $59,450 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $73,710 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $90,590 |
Mental Health Counselor Salary in Other States
Related Mental Health Counselor Salaries in New York
How other high-demand occupations in New York compare to Mental Health Counselor ($59,450 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Mental Health Counselor | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in NY | $492,040 | +727.7% | $236.56/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in NY | $445,660 | +649.6% | $214.26/hr |
| Radiologist in NY | $441,580 | +642.8% | $212.30/hr |
| Surgeon in NY | $410,410 | +590.3% | $197.31/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in NY | $348,800 | +486.7% | $167.69/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in NY | $321,030 | +440.0% | $154.34/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in NY | $301,690 | +407.5% | $145.04/hr |
| Psychiatrist in NY | $265,890 | +347.2% | $127.83/hr |
| Pediatrician in NY | $212,150 | +256.9% | $102.00/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in NY | $210,920 | +254.8% | $101.40/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in NY | $183,460 | +208.6% | $88.20/hr |
| Dentist in NY | $183,060 | +207.9% | $88.01/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Mental Health Counselor in New York?
- The median salary for a Mental Health Counselor in New York is $59,450 annually. This translates to an hourly rate of about $29, placing it just above the national average.
What is the salary range for Mental Health Counselors in New York?
- In New York, the salary range for Mental Health Counselors typically falls between $42,410 on the lower end and $90,590 on the higher end. This wide range reflects differences in experience and location.
How many Mental Health Counselors are employed in New York?
- There are approximately 26,770 Mental Health Counselors employed in New York. This substantial number indicates a significant presence and demand for these services within the state.
Is the Mental Health Counselor salary in New York competitive?
- Yes, the Mental Health Counselor salary in New York is competitive, with the median of $59,450 being 0.1% higher than the national average. The potential to earn up to $90,590 further highlights the earning opportunities.