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How to Become a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Arizona

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Arizona earn a median salary of $46,650/year, which is 22% below the national average. Arizona has a state income tax of ~2.5%. After taxes and rent, a mental health and substance abuse social workers takes home approximately $1,784/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$47K
Median salary in Arizona
-22%
vs. national average
2.5%
State income tax
3,610
Employed in Arizona

What a mental health and substance abuse social workers can afford in Arizona

Gross annual salary$46,650
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.5% state tax)$3,196/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arizona)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home44.2% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$46,650/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,784/mo

Becoming a mental health and substance abuse social workers in Arizona

1

Meet education requirements

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers positions in Arizona typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arizona. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many mental health and substance abuse social workers positions in Arizona require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Arizona licensure or certification

Arizona may require specific licensing or professional certification for mental health and substance abuse social workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arizona Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Arizona

Arizona employs 3,610 mental health and substance abuse social workers. The highest concentrations are in Flagstaff and Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary by metro area in Arizona

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Flagstaff$49K$23.64/hr40
Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler$47K$22.53/hr2,600
Prescott Valley-Prescott$47K$22.41/hr110
Tucson$46K$22.33/hr650
Sierra Vista-Douglas$43K$20.82/hr40
Yuma$43K$20.46/hr50

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary range in Arizona

10th percentile (entry)
$40K
25th percentile
$44K
Median (50th)
$47K
75th percentile
$51K
90th percentile (senior)
$62K
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Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a mental health and substance abuse social workers make in Arizona?

The median mental health and substance abuse social workers salary in Arizona is $46,650 per year ($22.43/hr). This is 22% below the national median of $60,060. Salaries range from $39,790 to $61,910.

What are the requirements to become a mental health and substance abuse social workers in Arizona?

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers positions in Arizona typically require Master's degree. Arizona may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arizona licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a mental health and substance abuse social workers afford to live in Arizona?

At the median salary of $46,650, a mental health and substance abuse social workers in Arizona would take home approximately $3,196/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for mental health and substance abuse social workers in Arizona?

The highest paying metro areas for mental health and substance abuse social workers in Arizona are Flagstaff ($49,180), Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler ($46,860), Prescott Valley-Prescott ($46,600). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arizona have state income tax for mental health and substance abuse social workers?

Yes, Arizona has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.5%. On a $46,650 salary, this means roughly $1,166/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.