Arkansas School Counselor Salary Guide - 2025

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: November 1st, 2024

School Counselor Salaries in Arkansas: A Brief Overview

The average salary for school counselors in Arkansas generally falls below the national average – median salary of $67,424 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023) and projected to grow 4.7% from 2022 to 2032. This is influenced by factors such as the state’s overall cost of living and the funding allocated to education.

Factors Affecting Salaries:

  • Location: Salaries can vary significantly depending on the location within Arkansas. Larger cities and districts may offer higher pay rates due to increased competition for qualified counselors.
  • Experience: Counselors with more years of experience typically earn higher salaries. Advanced degrees and certifications can also contribute to salary increases.
  • School District Size: Larger school districts may have more resources to invest in employee compensation, including counselor salaries.
  • Economic Conditions: The state’s economic health can impact funding for education and, consequently, counselor salaries.
  • Role and Responsibilities: Counselors with additional responsibilities, such as coordinating college counseling or career development programs, may earn higher salaries.

Why Understanding Salary is Important:

Knowing the average salary range for school counselors in Arkansas is crucial for individuals considering this career path for several reasons:

  • Financial Planning: Understanding salary expectations helps individuals make informed decisions about their financial future, such as student loan repayment and living expenses.
  • Career Advancement: Knowing the salary range can help counselors assess potential earning potential and identify opportunities for advancement within their field.
  • Negotiation: Armed with knowledge of salary trends, counselors can negotiate for fair compensation when seeking new positions or promotions.
  • Job Satisfaction: While salary is not the only factor to consider, it can contribute to overall job satisfaction and well-being.

By understanding the factors that influence school counselor salaries in Arkansas, individuals can make informed decisions about their career paths and negotiate for fair compensation.

Arkansas School Counselor Salaries – Visualized

School Counselors Salaries in urban areas of Arkansas

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO470$71,131
Fort Smith, AR-OK200$64,322
Hot Springs, AR70$71,723
Jonesboro, AR120$65,368
Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR490$69,446
Pine Bluff, AR70$62,173
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023

School Counselors Salaries in rural areas of Arkansas

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
North Arkansas nonmetropolitan area280$63,230
East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area150$63,416
West Arkansas nonmetropolitan area200$64,531
South Arkansas nonmetropolitan area210$62,149
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023