Speech-Language Pathologists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 178,790 speech-language pathologists, and they earn a median of $95,410/year. The range runs from $60K to $133K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level speech-language pathologists start around $60K. The gap between that and the median ($95K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $133K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| California | $116K | 14,680 |
| New York | $109K | 16,250 |
| Hawaii | $108K | 130 |
| District of Columbia | $107K | 410 |
| New Mexico | $105K | 1,040 |
| Oregon | $104K | 1,750 |
| Washington | $102K | 3,170 |
| Massachusetts | $102K | 5,000 |
| New Jersey | $102K | 7,660 |
| Delaware | $101K | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a speech-language pathologists make?▼
The median speech-language pathologists salary in the United States is $95,410 per year ($46/hour). Entry-level positions start around $60,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $132,850.
What education do you need to become a speech-language pathologists?▼
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 speech-language pathologists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for speech-language pathologists.
What are the highest paying states for speech-language pathologists?▼
The highest paying states for speech-language pathologists are California ($116,000), New York ($108,870), Hawaii ($108,230), District of Columbia ($106,950), New Mexico ($104,910). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.