How to Become a Rehabilitation Counselors in Florida
Rehabilitation Counselors in Florida earn a median salary of $48,520/year, which is 5% above the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a rehabilitation counselors takes home approximately $2,007/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a rehabilitation counselors can afford in Florida
Becoming a rehabilitation counselors in Florida
Meet education requirements
Rehabilitation Counselors positions in Florida typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many rehabilitation counselors positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for rehabilitation counselorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 2,730 rehabilitation counselors. The highest concentrations are in Cape Coral-Fort Myers and Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent.
Rehabilitation Counselors salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $49K | $23.46/hr | 60 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $49K | $23.46/hr | 80 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $49K | $23.46/hr | 270 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $49K | $23.46/hr | 600 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $49K | $23.46/hr | 280 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $48K | $23.29/hr | 70 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $48K | $22.9/hr | 80 |
| Port St. Lucie | $46K | $22.07/hr | 100 |
| Jacksonville | $46K | $21.97/hr | 230 |
| Ocala | $45K | $21.46/hr | 40 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $40K | $19.33/hr | 50 |
| Tallahassee | $39K | $18.92/hr | 150 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $39K | $18.55/hr | 70 |
| Gainesville | $38K | $18.38/hr | 110 |
| Sebring | $38K | $18.18/hr | 40 |
Rehabilitation Counselors salary range in Florida
Rehabilitation Counselors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a rehabilitation counselors make in Florida?▼
The median rehabilitation counselors salary in Florida is $48,520 per year ($23.33/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $46,110. Salaries range from $34,690 to $83,390.
What are the requirements to become a rehabilitation counselors in Florida?▼
Rehabilitation Counselors positions in Florida typically require Master's degree. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a rehabilitation counselors afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $48,520, a rehabilitation counselors in Florida would take home approximately $3,419/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for rehabilitation counselors in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for rehabilitation counselors in Florida are Cape Coral-Fort Myers ($48,800), Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent ($48,800), Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater ($48,800). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for rehabilitation counselors?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means rehabilitation counselors keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.