Child, Family, and School Social Workers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 382,960 child, family, and school social workers, and they earn a median of $58,570/year. The range runs from $41K to $94K. Connecticut pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level child, family, and school social workers start around $41K. The gap between that and the median ($59K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $94K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $79K | 5,360 |
| District of Columbia | $79K | 2,800 |
| New Jersey | $78K | 6,410 |
| Washington | $72K | 10,570 |
| Maryland | $71K | 5,030 |
| California | $69K | 55,220 |
| Massachusetts | $68K | 9,830 |
| Rhode Island | $67K | 2,320 |
| North Dakota | $67K | 780 |
| Hawaii | $66K | 1,080 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a child, family, and school social workers make?▼
The median child, family, and school social workers salary in the United States is $58,570 per year ($28/hour). Entry-level positions start around $40,580, while experienced professionals earn up to $94,030.
What education do you need to become a child, family, and school social workers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for child, family, and school social workers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for child, family, and school social workers.
What are the highest paying states for child, family, and school social workers?▼
The highest paying states for child, family, and school social workers are Connecticut ($78,940), District of Columbia ($78,920), New Jersey ($78,150), Washington ($72,290), Maryland ($70,840). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.