Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in the East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $56,170. This figure is notably below the national average of $64,100, a difference often attributable to the unique economic dynamics and demand specific to nonmetropolitan regions. Factors such as local funding, community needs, and the availability of specialized services can influence compensation levels in these areas.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $56,170 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 17.1% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $108,470.
- Outlook: The job market for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in East Arkansas appears robust, with a total local workforce of 280 individuals in this field. The Location Quotient of 1.42 significantly exceeds the national average, indicating a higher concentration of these professionals relative to the general workforce. This suggests a strong local demand and a well-established presence for these essential services within the community.
Salary Overview
The average Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area earns-12.4%below the national average.
$27
$1,080
$4,681
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this precise region isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume a positive growth trend for mental health counseling roles over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Increased awareness of mental health issues and a growing demand for accessible care likely contribute to steady employment opportunities and potential salary increases, even in nonmetropolitan settings.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary Distribution in East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors typically involves a salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions will likely fall below the average of $56,170, while senior counselors with extensive experience and specialized skills can command higher salaries, potentially exceeding the average. The percentile gaps between entry-level, mid-career, and senior roles signify clear pathways for professional development and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ProbationaryInitial licensure. Mentored by senior faculty. | 10% (Entry) | $31,480 | $15.1 |
| Tenured / ProProfessional status. Curriculum development. | 25% (Junior) | $42,128 | $20.3 |
| Senior EducatorDepartment chair. Mentors student teachers. | 50% (Median) | $49,460 | $23.8 |
| Lead SpecialistInstructional coach, reading specialist, or VP. | 75% (Senior) | $70,213 | $33.8 |
| AdministratorPrincipal, District Admin, or Consultant. | 90% (Expert) | $108,470 | $52.1 |
Detailed Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$56,170
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$56,170
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $56,170 in East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a counselor's salary in this region is equivalent to the national average, making the nominal salary hold its value effectively within the local economic landscape.
Job Market Context
280
Total Jobs
4.046
Per 1K Jobs
1.42
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.42, East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors roles compared to the national norm.
With a Location Quotient of 1.42, the East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area demonstrates a significantly higher concentration of Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors compared to the national average. This suggests that the job market here is relatively abundant with these professionals, potentially indicating a competitive environment for new entrants but also a strong network and established demand for their services.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
Comparing salaries near East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors make in East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area is $56,170. This typically ranges from $31,480 for entry-level positions to $108,470 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area is 12.4% lower than the national median of $64,100.
Is East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselorss?
No, but it offers strong value.While the average salary of $56,170 is below the national average, the Cost of Living Index of 100 means your earnings have equivalent purchasing power. The high concentration of counselors (LQ 1.42) also indicates a stable and established demand for these services.
Is East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors?
The Cost of Living Index in East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR ($60,230) and Hot Springs, AR.
How does the local workforce size impact job opportunities?
A local workforce of 280 indicates a substantial presence of these professionals, suggesting established services and ongoing demand within the community.
What does a Location Quotient of 1.42 mean for counselors?
A Location Quotient of 1.42 signifies that these counselors are more concentrated in East Arkansas nonmetropolitan areas than the national average, pointing to a strong local need and presence in the field.
How does the cost of living affect the $56,170 salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the $56,170 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average, making it a stable income relative to expenses in the area.
Are there many job openings for mental health counselors in this region?
The high Location Quotient suggests a robust market with a significant number of professionals, indicating consistent demand and opportunities for qualified counselors.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 280 employees in the East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 4.046 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area