Social Worker Salary in the United States
Based on 124K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$56,931
$27.371/hr
▲ 6.2% vs 2023Salary Range
$50K – $136K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
124K
workers nationwide
Social Worker salary in the United States reflects the critical work these professionals provide across healthcare, child welfare, and community services. The median annual salary for social workers stands at $56,931, with approximately 124,200 workers currently employed in this field. This represents a stable career path for those committed to helping vulnerable populations and addressing social issues.
Several factors influence social worker compensation across different settings and regions. Experience level, educational credentials, and specialized certifications can significantly impact earning potential. Additionally, the type of employer—whether government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private practices—plays a substantial role in determining salary. Geographic location and the cost of living in specific states also contribute to wage variations, with salaries ranging from $49,890 to $135,690 depending on these circumstances.
Salary Distribution — Social Worker
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $49,890 |
| 25th percentile | $63,720 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $56,931 |
| 75th percentile | $98,100 |
| 90th percentile | $135,690 |
Social Worker Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Social Worker
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York | $80,230 | +40.9% | 14K |
| 2 | Connecticut | $78,820 | +38.4% | 1K |
| 3 | Minnesota | $77,100 | +35.4% | 3K |
| 4 | California | $75,320 | +32.3% | 18K |
| 5 | District of Columbia | $72,720 | +27.7% | 640 |
| 6 | Oregon | $71,830 | +26.2% | 2K |
| 7 | New Jersey | $70,420 | +23.7% | 3K |
| 8 | Hawaii | $70,340 | +23.6% | 410 |
| 9 | Vermont | $69,540 | +22.1% | 370 |
| 10 | Washington | $69,060 | +21.3% | 3K |
Historical Salary Trend — Social Worker
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $50,498 |
| 2023 | $53,608 |
| 2024 | $56,931 |
Social Worker Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do social workers make per hour in the United States?
- Social workers earn a median of $27 per hour in the United States. This hourly rate is based on the median annual salary of $56,931, which represents typical earnings for the profession.
What city pays social workers the most?
- New York is the top paying city for social workers, with an average salary of $80,230 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median of $56,931.
What is the salary range for social workers in the US?
- Social worker salaries in the United States range from $49,890 to $135,690 per year, depending on factors like experience, location, and employer. The median salary falls at $56,931 annually.
How many social workers are employed in the United States?
- There are approximately 124,200 social workers currently employed in the United States. This represents the total workforce in this profession across the country.