Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary in Columbus, OH

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Columbus, OH

Median annual salary $59,110 -0.1% vs national
Median hourly $28.42
10th percentile $44,630
90th percentile $90,700
Employed locally 3,630
National median $59,190

Compare Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary & buying power

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    In Columbus, OH, Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors earn a median annual salary of $59,110, which closely aligns with the national median of $59,190. This income is somewhat below the area's median household income of $79,847, indicating that these counselors typically earn less than the average household in their locality. Despite this disparity, the local unemployment rate stands at a relatively low 4.00%, suggesting a stable job market for professionals within this field.

    The salary range for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors varies significantly based on experience levels. Entry-level counselors, represented by the 10th percentile, earn approximately $44,630 annually, while those in more experienced roles may find themselves at or near the 90th percentile with salaries reaching up to $90,700 per year. This substantial difference is driven primarily by factors such as years of experience, level of education, specialization within the field, and geographic location within Columbus. Experienced professionals often have advanced certifications or specialized training that can command higher wages, reflecting their increased expertise and value in the healthcare industry.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $44,630
    25th
    $49,100
    50th (median)
    $59,110
    75th
    $71,950
    90th
    $90,700

    Columbus economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $79,847 2023 • Census ACS
    Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary vs area income 74% Median Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary is 26% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors make per hour in Columbus?

    The median hourly wage for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Columbus, OH is $28.42, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $42.55 or more per hour.

    Is Columbus above or below average for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salaries?

    The median Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary in Columbus, OH is 0.1% below the national median of $59,190. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Columbus?

    Entry-level Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors (10th percentile) earn around $44,630 per year in Columbus, OH. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $49,100.