Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how School Counselors in Houston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Houston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $51,500 | $39,200 | $66,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $64,100 | $48,700 | $83,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $73,700 | $56,000 | $95,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $88,400 | $67,200 | $114,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $100,200 | $76,100 | $130,100 |
Highest-paying metros for School Counselors — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average School Counselor salary in the Houston metro is $73,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $56,000 to $95,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $121,500 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -1% relative to the Texas state median for School Counselors. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Houston vs. national: +7%. Houston pays roughly in line with the national average for School Counselors. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Houston, the median School Counselor salary of $73,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level School Counselors in Houston start around $51,500, while seniors (10+ years) reach $88,400 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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