Social work is an incredibly fulfilling career, as it provides individuals with the ability to facilitate positive change in people’s lives. To become a social worker, one must complete a degree in social work and obtain a license. One question that is commonly asked by those considering a career in social work is – how much does a social worker earn?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for social workers in the United States was $50,470 as of May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,790 per year, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $82,540 per year.
It’s important to note that the salary for a social worker can vary depending on several factors, such as the location of the job, the level of education, and the type of social work being performed.
1. Location: Salaries for social workers can vary based on the location of the job. Different cities and states have different demands for social work services, which can impact salaries. According to the BLS, the top-paying states for social workers in 2019 were:
- California: Median annual wage of $68,350
- Connecticut: Median annual wage of $65,020
- Massachusetts: Median annual wage of $63,540
- Washington: Median annual wage of $63,140
2. Level of education: Social workers with higher levels of education, such as those with a master’s degree or Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree, are likely to earn higher salaries. For example, according to the BLS, the median annual wage for healthcare social workers with a master’s degree in May 2019 was $56,750, whereas those with a bachelor’s degree earned a median salary of $49,830.
3. Type of social work: The salary for a social worker can also vary based on the type of social work that they perform. For instance, social workers in healthcare settings may earn more than those working in schools or non-profit organizations.
There are several different types of social work careers and specialties, each of which may have a different salary range. Below are a few examples:
Child, family, and school social workers work with children and families to provide support, education, and counseling services. As of May 2019, the median annual wage for this type of social worker was $47,390.
Clinical social workers are licensed social workers who provide mental health services to individuals and groups. As of May 2019, the median annual wage for this type of social worker was $56,200.
Healthcare social workers work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings to provide support and advocacy for patients and their families. As of May 2019, the median annual wage for this type of social worker was $56,750.
Summary
In conclusion, social work is an incredibly rewarding career that provides individuals with the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. While salaries for social workers can vary depending on several factors, the median annual wage for social workers in the United States was $50,470 as of May 2019. By pursuing higher levels of education and specializing in certain areas of social work, it is possible to earn a higher salary and advance one’s career.
