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How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Massachusetts

Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $78,840/year, which is 21% above the national average. Massachusetts has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $3,580/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$79K
Median salary in Massachusetts
+21%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
11,850
Employed in Massachusetts

What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in Massachusetts

Gross annual salary$78,840
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$4,992/mo
Median 2BR rent (Massachusetts)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home28.3% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$78,840/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,580/mo

Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Massachusetts

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Massachusetts licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Massachusetts

Massachusetts employs 11,850 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in Pittsfield and Barnstable Town.

Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in Massachusetts

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Pittsfield$84K$40.61/hr140
Barnstable Town$82K$39.41/hr230
Boston-Cambridge-Newton$79K$37.91/hr8,430
Springfield$78K$37.64/hr790
Worcester$77K$37.21/hr1,230
Amherst Town-Northampton$67K$32.13/hr520

Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in Massachusetts

10th percentile (entry)
$55K
25th percentile
$64K
Median (50th)
$79K
75th percentile
$100K
90th percentile (senior)
$112K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in Massachusetts?

The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in Massachusetts is $78,840 per year ($37.9/hr). This is 21% above the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $55,180 to $111,860.

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

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

Can a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in Massachusetts?

At the median salary of $78,840, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Massachusetts would take home approximately $4,992/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.3% 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 Massachusetts?

The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Massachusetts are Pittsfield ($84,460), Barnstable Town ($81,980), Boston-Cambridge-Newton ($78,850). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Massachusetts have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?

Yes, Massachusetts has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $78,840 salary, this means roughly $3,942/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.