School Counselor Salary in Ames, IA
How much does a school counselor make in Ames? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Ames's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how school counselor salaries break down across different pay periods in Ames.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $38,303 | $56,987 | $78,474 |
| Monthly | $3,192 | $4,749 | $6,540 |
| Biweekly | $1,473 | $2,192 | $3,018 |
| Weekly | $737 | $1,096 | $1,509 |
| Hourly | $18 | $27 | $38 |
Ames vs National Average
How Ames's school counselor salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Ames
About School Counselor
Overview
Provide counseling and guidance services to students.
Education
Master's degree in School Counseling; Certification required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +13% over the next decade
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School Counselor Salary in Ames, IA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a school counselor in Ames, IA is $56,987 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 91. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Ames's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level school counselor professionals in Ames can expect to earn around $38,303 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level school counselors earning approximately $78,474 per year. This represents a 105% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Ames's cost of living index of 91 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Ames are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $76,370, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a school counselor's salary in Ames typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $820 per month, housing represents about 17.3% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
School Counselors are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 13% over the next decade. In Ames, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.