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Community & Social · District of Columbia

How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in District of Columbia

Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in District of Columbia earn a median salary of $80,280/year, which is 23% above the national average. District of Columbia has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $3,661/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$80K
Median salary in District of Columbia
+23%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
1,800
Employed in District of Columbia

What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in District of Columbia

Gross annual salary$80,280
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$5,073/mo
Median 2BR rent (District of Columbia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home27.8% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$80,280/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,661/mo

Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in District of Columbia

1

Meet education requirements

Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors positions in District of Columbia typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across District of Columbia. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors positions in District of Columbia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain District of Columbia licensure or certification

District of Columbia may require specific licensing or professional certification for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the District of Columbia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in District of Columbia

District of Columbia employs 1,800 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria.

Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in District of Columbia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria$76K$36.65/hr7,250

Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in District of Columbia

10th percentile (entry)
$51K
25th percentile
$62K
Median (50th)
$80K
75th percentile
$101K
90th percentile (senior)
$113K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in District of Columbia?

The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in District of Columbia is $80,280 per year ($38.6/hr). This is 23% above the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $50,910 to $113,160.

What are the requirements to become a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in District of Columbia?

Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors positions in District of Columbia typically require Master's degree. District of Columbia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the District of Columbia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in District of Columbia?

At the median salary of $80,280, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in District of Columbia would take home approximately $5,073/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in District of Columbia?

The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in District of Columbia are Washington-Arlington-Alexandria ($76,230). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does District of Columbia have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?

Yes, District of Columbia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $80,280 salary, this means roughly $3,983/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.