Psychiatric Aides: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 34,900 psychiatric aides, and they earn a median of $41,590/year. The range runs from $31K to $59K. New Hampshire pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level psychiatric aides start around $31K. The gap between that and the median ($42K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $59K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $56K | 40 |
| New York | $53K | 5,330 |
| Massachusetts | $51K | 750 |
| Washington | $51K | 310 |
| Nevada | $50K | 140 |
| Minnesota | $50K | 240 |
| Rhode Island | $48K | N/A |
| Illinois | $48K | 390 |
| Alaska | $47K | 230 |
| Oregon | $47K | 1,290 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a psychiatric aides make?▼
The median psychiatric aides salary in the United States is $41,590 per year ($20/hour). Entry-level positions start around $30,920, while experienced professionals earn up to $58,530.
What education do you need to become a psychiatric aides?▼
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 psychiatric aides?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for psychiatric aides.
What are the highest paying states for psychiatric aides?▼
The highest paying states for psychiatric aides are New Hampshire ($55,690), New York ($53,270), Massachusetts ($51,250), Washington ($51,080), Nevada ($50,250). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.