School Counselor Salary in Wilkes-Barre, PA
How much does a school counselor make in Wilkes-Barre? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Wilkes-Barre's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how school counselor salaries break down across different pay periods in Wilkes-Barre.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $40,962 | $60,943 | $83,922 |
| Monthly | $3,414 | $5,079 | $6,994 |
| Biweekly | $1,575 | $2,344 | $3,228 |
| Weekly | $788 | $1,172 | $1,614 |
| Hourly | $20 | $29 | $40 |
Wilkes-Barre vs National Average
How Wilkes-Barre's school counselor salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Wilkes-Barre
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 Wilkes-Barre, PA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a school counselor in Wilkes-Barre, PA is $60,943 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 84. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Wilkes-Barre's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level school counselor professionals in Wilkes-Barre can expect to earn around $40,962 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level school counselors earning approximately $83,922 per year. This represents a 105% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Wilkes-Barre's cost of living index of 84 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Wilkes-Barre 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 Wilkes-Barre typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $800 per month, housing represents about 15.8% 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 Wilkes-Barre, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.