Social and Community Service Managers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 195,490 social and community service managers, and they earn a median of $78,240/year. The range runs from $50K to $130K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level social and community service managers start around $50K. The gap between that and the median ($78K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $130K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $100K | 690 |
| Washington | $99K | 3,510 |
| Virginia | $93K | 3,420 |
| New York | $93K | 17,850 |
| New Jersey | $93K | 4,980 |
| Alaska | $87K | 960 |
| Tennessee | $86K | 2,540 |
| South Dakota | $84K | 380 |
| North Dakota | $83K | 480 |
| Maryland | $83K | 4,080 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a social and community service managers make?▼
The median social and community service managers salary in the United States is $78,240 per year ($38/hour). Entry-level positions start around $50,020, while experienced professionals earn up to $129,820.
What education do you need to become a social and community service managers?▼
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 social and community service managers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for social and community service managers.
What are the highest paying states for social and community service managers?▼
The highest paying states for social and community service managers are District of Columbia ($99,700), Washington ($98,710), Virginia ($93,150), New York ($93,140), New Jersey ($92,840). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.