Wisconsin School Counselor Salary Guide - 2025

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: November 1st, 2024

School Counselor Salaries in Wisconsin: A Closer Look

Whether school counselors in Wisconsin make a “good” salary is subjective and depends on individual financial goals and expectations – median salary of $71,584 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023) and projected to grow 8.8% from 2022 to 2032. However, based on current data, here’s a general overview:

Average Salary

The average salary for a school counselor in Wisconsin is typically lower than many other professions, especially those in technology, finance, or law. This is generally due to the public sector nature of many school counseling positions and the state’s funding allocation for education.

Factors Affecting Salary

Several factors can influence a school counselor’s salary:

  • Experience: More experienced counselors often earn higher salaries.
  • Education: Additional certifications or degrees can increase earning potential.
  • Location: Salaries may vary depending on the specific region within Wisconsin. Larger cities or areas with higher cost of living might offer slightly higher pay.
  • School District: The size, type (public, private), and financial resources of the school district can impact salary.

Benefits and Job Satisfaction

While the salary might be lower compared to some other professions, school counselors often enjoy significant benefits, such as:

  • Job security: Public school positions often offer job stability.
  • Health insurance: Many districts provide comprehensive health insurance plans.
  • Retirement benefits: Public school employees typically have access to retirement plans.
  • Job satisfaction: The opportunity to positively impact students’ lives can be highly rewarding.

While school counselors in Wisconsin may not earn the highest salaries, the profession offers a balance of job security, benefits, and the potential for significant personal and professional satisfaction. If you’re considering a career in school counseling, it’s essential to research specific salary information based on your location and experience level.

Wisconsin School Counselor Salaries – Visualized

School Counselors Salaries in urban areas of Wisconsin

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Appleton, WI150$69,841
Eau Claire, WI150$69,167
Fond du Lac, WI90$65,507
Green Bay, WI250$67,517
Janesville-Beloit, WI110$73,687
La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN150$73,466
Madison, WI830$73,164
Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI1,140$76,138
Oshkosh-Neenah, WI110$72,014
Racine, WI110$78,311
Sheboygan, WI80$65,414
Wausau, WI140$58,664
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023

School Counselors Salaries in rural areas of Wisconsin

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Northwestern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area90$67,482
Northeastern Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area310$69,946
South Central Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area350$66,588
Western Wisconsin nonmetropolitan area190$64,368
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023