Health Education Specialists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 65,150 health education specialists, and they earn a median of $63,000/year. The range runs from $42K to $113K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level health education specialists start around $42K. The gap between that and the median ($63K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $113K, 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 | $111K | 600 |
| Maryland | $101K | 2,160 |
| Georgia | $97K | 3,260 |
| Rhode Island | $80K | 160 |
| New Jersey | $78K | 1,220 |
| Minnesota | $78K | 1,480 |
| Pennsylvania | $75K | 2,230 |
| Oregon | $74K | 820 |
| New Hampshire | $74K | 140 |
| Alaska | $73K | 280 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a health education specialists make?▼
The median health education specialists salary in the United States is $63,000 per year ($30/hour). Entry-level positions start around $42,210, while experienced professionals earn up to $112,900.
What education do you need to become a health education specialists?▼
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 health education specialists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for health education specialists.
What are the highest paying states for health education specialists?▼
The highest paying states for health education specialists are District of Columbia ($110,620), Maryland ($101,090), Georgia ($97,010), Rhode Island ($80,390), New Jersey ($78,400). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.