Mental Health Counselor Salary in Wisconsin
Based on 8K+ workers in Wisconsin
Median Annual Salary (WI)
$62,220
$29.91/hr
vs National Average
$59,385
+4.8% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$47K – $95K
8K employed in Wisconsin
The median Mental Health Counselor salary in Wisconsin is $62,220 per year, which translates to approximately $30 per hour. This figure is 4.8% higher than the national average, indicating a slightly more favorable compensation landscape for these professionals in the state.
Several factors can influence the Mental Health Counselor salary in Wisconsin. These include years of experience, the specific type of facility or practice where one is employed, geographic location within the state, and the level of education and specialized certifications held by the counselor. Higher demand in certain areas or for specific therapeutic approaches may also lead to increased earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Mental Health Counselor in Wisconsin
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $46,510 |
| 25th percentile | $52,420 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $62,220 |
| 75th percentile | $77,520 |
| 90th percentile | $94,640 |
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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Wisconsin) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $62,220 |
| 2026 (projected) | $64,087 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Wisconsin Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $62,220 | $59,385 |
| 2026 (projected) | $64,087 | $61,167 |
Mental Health Counselor Salary by Experience Level in Wisconsin
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $52,420 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $62,220 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $77,520 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $94,640 |
Mental Health Counselor Salary in Other States
Related Mental Health Counselor Salaries in Wisconsin
How other high-demand occupations in Wisconsin compare to Mental Health Counselor ($62,220 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Mental Health Counselor | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in WI | $636,580 | +923.1% | $306.05/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in WI | $443,990 | +613.6% | $213.46/hr |
| Surgeon in WI | $416,000 | +568.6% | $200.00/hr |
| Radiologist in WI | $392,610 | +531.0% | $188.75/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in WI | $367,160 | +490.1% | $176.52/hr |
| Psychiatrist in WI | $331,070 | +432.1% | $159.17/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in WI | $304,990 | +390.2% | $146.63/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in WI | $290,640 | +367.1% | $139.73/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in WI | $273,170 | +339.0% | $131.33/hr |
| Pediatrician in WI | $269,790 | +333.6% | $129.71/hr |
| Dentist in WI | $193,690 | +211.3% | $93.12/hr |
| Podiatrist in WI | $185,100 | +197.5% | $88.99/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Mental Health Counselor in Wisconsin?
- In Wisconsin, Mental Health Counselors generally see a salary range from $46,510 to $94,640 annually. The median salary sits at $62,220 per year, providing a good benchmark for understanding typical earnings.
How does the average Mental Health Counselor salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
- The average Mental Health Counselor salary in Wisconsin is notably higher than the national average, coming in at 4.8% above it. This means professionals in Wisconsin can expect to earn more than their counterparts across the country.
What is the hourly wage for a Mental Health Counselor in Wisconsin?
- Based on the median annual salary of $62,220, a Mental Health Counselor in Wisconsin typically earns around $30 per hour. This hourly rate reflects the cost of living and demand for mental health services within the state.
How many Mental Health Counselors are employed in Wisconsin?
- There are approximately 8,340 Mental Health Counselors employed in Wisconsin. This substantial number highlights the significant presence of mental health professionals serving the state's population.