How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Alabama
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Alabama earn a median salary of $60,530/year, which is 7% below the national average. Alabama has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $2,572/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in Alabama
Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Alabama
Meet education requirements
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors positions in Alabama typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Alabama. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors positions in Alabama require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Alabama licensure or certification
Alabama may require specific licensing or professional certification for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Alabama Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Alabama
Alabama employs 4,510 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in Tuscaloosa and Decatur.
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in Alabama
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuscaloosa | $87K | $41.99/hr | 380 |
| Decatur | $68K | $32.48/hr | 90 |
| Birmingham | $65K | $31.16/hr | 900 |
| Daphne-Fairhope-Foley | $64K | $30.78/hr | 150 |
| Huntsville | $60K | $29/hr | 460 |
| Auburn-Opelika | $60K | $28.93/hr | 320 |
| Dothan | $60K | $28.68/hr | 90 |
| Montgomery | $59K | $28.24/hr | 350 |
| Mobile | $59K | $28.19/hr | 350 |
| Gadsden | $56K | $26.98/hr | 90 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals | $51K | $24.39/hr | 130 |
| Anniston-Oxford | $49K | $23.73/hr | 120 |
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in Alabama
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in Alabama?▼
The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in Alabama is $60,530 per year ($29.1/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $38,110 to $87,340.
What are the requirements to become a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Alabama?▼
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors positions in Alabama typically require Master's degree. Alabama may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Alabama licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in Alabama?▼
At the median salary of $60,530, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Alabama would take home approximately $3,984/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Alabama?▼
The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Alabama are Tuscaloosa ($87,340), Decatur ($67,550), Birmingham ($64,800). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Alabama have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?▼
Yes, Alabama has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $60,530 salary, this means roughly $2,862/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.