Louisiana School Counselor Salary Guide - 2025

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: November 1st, 2024

The salary for school counselors in Louisiana varies based on several factors, with the median salary of $73,710 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023) and projected to grow 8.5% from 2022 to 2032.

Key factors affecting salaries include:

  1. Experience: More experienced counselors typically earn higher salaries.
  2. Education: Advanced degrees, such as a master’s or Ph.D., can lead to higher pay.
  3. Location: Counselors in urban areas or high-demand districts may earn more compared to those in rural areas.
  4. School Level: Counselors in high schools often earn more than those in elementary or middle schools.
  5. District Funding: Wealthier school districts with higher budgets may offer better salaries, while underfunded districts may pay less.
  6. Additional Certifications: Specializations or additional credentials in areas like mental health or career counseling can boost pay.

Positively impacting salaries are advanced degrees, more experience, and working in well-funded districts. Negative factors include low state funding for education and working in economically disadvantaged areas, where school budgets may be more constrained.

Someone interested in becoming a school counselor should understand these salary factors because they directly affect job satisfaction, financial stability, and career growth. Knowing these variables helps in making informed career decisions and negotiating salaries effectively.

Louisiana School Counselor Salaries – Visualized

School Counselors Salaries in urban areas of Louisiana

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Alexandria, LA140$68,679
Baton Rouge, LA1,810$77,312
Hammond, LA90$63,671
Houma-Thibodaux, LA180$67,413
Lafayette, LA430$69,051
Lake Charles, LA810$86,026
Monroe, LA140$66,355
New Orleans-Metairie, LA1,420$71,642
Shreveport-Bossier City, LA580$66,797
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023

School Counselors Salaries in rural areas of Louisiana

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Central Louisiana nonmetropolitan area240$68,749
Northeast Louisiana nonmetropolitan area190$67,296
Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area160$67,947
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023