Community Health Workers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 60,730 community health workers, and they earn a median of $51,030/year. The range runs from $38K to $79K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level community health workers start around $38K. The gap between that and the median ($51K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $79K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $72K | 320 |
| New Mexico | $71K | 930 |
| Connecticut | $59K | 590 |
| North Dakota | $58K | 80 |
| California | $58K | 9,200 |
| Nevada | $57K | 550 |
| New York | $57K | 6,740 |
| Rhode Island | $57K | 340 |
| Washington | $56K | 2,440 |
| Utah | $56K | 580 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a community health workers make?▼
The median community health workers salary in the United States is $51,030 per year ($25/hour). Entry-level positions start around $37,930, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,560.
What education do you need to become a community health 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 community health workers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for community health workers.
What are the highest paying states for community health workers?▼
The highest paying states for community health workers are District of Columbia ($71,550), New Mexico ($71,210), Connecticut ($59,480), North Dakota ($57,840), California ($57,560). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.