Marriage and Family Therapists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 65,870 marriage and family therapists, and they earn a median of $63,780/year. The range runs from $43K to $112K. Hawaii pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level marriage and family therapists start around $43K. The gap between that and the median ($64K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $112K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $136K | 220 |
| New Jersey | $89K | 3,940 |
| Utah | $81K | 1,980 |
| Virginia | $81K | 910 |
| Oregon | $80K | 1,080 |
| Connecticut | $77K | 390 |
| Minnesota | $72K | 3,780 |
| Maine | $69K | N/A |
| Nebraska | $69K | 50 |
| New Mexico | $68K | 250 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a marriage and family therapists make?▼
The median marriage and family therapists salary in the United States is $63,780 per year ($31/hour). Entry-level positions start around $42,610, while experienced professionals earn up to $111,610.
What education do you need to become a marriage and family therapists?▼
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 marriage and family therapists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for marriage and family therapists.
What are the highest paying states for marriage and family therapists?▼
The highest paying states for marriage and family therapists are Hawaii ($135,870), New Jersey ($89,030), Utah ($81,170), Virginia ($80,670), Oregon ($79,890). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.