Skip to content
AffordMap
Community & Social · Kansas

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

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Kansas earn a median salary of $56,110/year, which is 7% below the national average. Kansas has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a mental health and substance abuse social workers takes home approximately $2,303/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$56K
Median salary in Kansas
-7%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
1,360
Employed in Kansas

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

Gross annual salary$56,110
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$3,715/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kansas)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home38% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$56,110/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,303/mo

Becoming a mental health and substance abuse social workers in Kansas

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Kansas licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Kansas

Kansas employs 1,360 mental health and substance abuse social workers. The highest concentrations are in Wichita and Topeka.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Wichita$54K$25.73/hr210
Topeka$51K$24.51/hr140
Manhattan$50K$24.09/hr30

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary range in Kansas

10th percentile (entry)
$43K
25th percentile
$51K
Median (50th)
$56K
75th percentile
$65K
90th percentile (senior)
$77K
View jobs for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Currently hiring in Kansas
View →
More openings for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Currently hiring in Kansas
View →
Build skills for your next move
Explore courses and certificates related to your role
View →
Full mental health and substance abuse social workers salary breakdown in Kansas
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Kansas
After federal + 4.5% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Kansas cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

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 Kansas?

The median mental health and substance abuse social workers salary in Kansas is $56,110 per year ($26.98/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $60,060. Salaries range from $43,400 to $77,060.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $56,110, a mental health and substance abuse social workers in Kansas would take home approximately $3,715/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38% 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 Kansas?

The highest paying metro areas for mental health and substance abuse social workers in Kansas are Wichita ($53,520), Topeka ($50,980), Manhattan ($50,110). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Kansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $56,110 salary, this means roughly $2,541/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.