Clergy vs. Social and Human Service Assistants: Who Earns More?
Clergy out-earn Social and Human Service Assistants by $15K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Clergy land at $60,810 and Social and Human Service Assistants at $45,930. The education gap is real: clergy programs typically require master's degree, while social and human service assistant programs require master's degree. Top-paying state for Clergy is Washington ($80,830); for Social and Human Service Assistants it's District of Columbia ($59,460).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Clergy median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Clergy or Social and Human Service Assistants?
Clergy earn more nationally. The median is $60,810 for Clergy versus $45,930 for Social and Human Service Assistants, a difference of $15K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Clergy or Social and Human Service Assistants?
Social and Human Service Assistants has the better 10-year outlook at 6.4% projected growth, compared to 1% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Clergy or Social and Human Service Assistants?
Clergy typically requires master's degree. Social and Human Service Assistants requires master's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Clergy get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Clergy at $80,830/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Clergy vs. Social and Human Service Assistants pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Clergy earn $80,830 vs. $54,770 for Social and Human Service Assistants. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.