Social Worker Salary in the USA
Social workers support vulnerable individuals and families, including children at risk, elderly people, and those with disabilities or mental health challenges.
Social Worker Take Home Pay
On the average Social Worker salary of $58,000, you would take home $48,642 per year ($4,053.46 per month) after federal tax and FICA.
Effective tax rate: 16.1%|Marginal rate: 12%
Social Worker Salary by Location
Social Worker salaries vary significantly by region. California and New York typically offer the highest salaries but also have higher costs of living and state income taxes.
Social Worker Salary Growth (2020-2025)
See how Social Worker salaries have changed over the past 5 years, including inflation-adjusted real growth.
+22.2%
Total Growth
+$10,549
Salary Increase
+4.1%
Annual Growth Rate
-1.6%
Real Growth (Inflation Adj.)
Year-over-Year Changes
Key Skills Required
Typical Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's in Social Work
- State licensure (LCSW/LSW)
- Background check
Social Worker Career Progression
What Does a Social Worker Do?
Industries Hiring Social Workers
Calculate Your Take Home Pay
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Your Income
Enter your salary details for 2025
✓ No state income tax
Pre-tax contribution (max $23,500 in 2025)
Pre-tax health savings (max $4,300 self / $8,550 family)
Take Home Pay
$48,641.50/year
83.9% of gross income
- Gross Income$58,000.00
- Taxable Income$43,000.00
- Federal Tax-$4,921.50
- State Tax (TX)-$0.00
- Social Security-$3,596.00
- Medicare-$841.00
- Total Deductions-$9,358.50
16.1%
Effective Rate
12%
Marginal Rate
$58,000 Salary Insights
Compare your salary and understand your tax breakdown
$58,000 vs US Wages
Below US median
-3%
vs US Median
$1,540
Below Median
Where Your $58,000 Goes
Annual breakdown of your salary
401(k) Tax Benefits on $58,000
See how 401(k) contributions reduce your tax bill
Increase your 401(k) contribution to see potential tax savings. Max contribution for 2025 is $23,500.
Related Public Sector Salaries
Social Worker Salary FAQ
What is the average Social Worker salary in the US?
The average Social Worker salary in the US is $58,000 per year. Salaries typically range from $42,000 for entry-level positions to $80,000 for senior roles.
How much does a Social Worker earn in California?
A Social Worker in California earns an average of $70,000 per year, which is 27% higher than the national average.
What is the take-home pay for a Social Worker?
On the average Social Worker salary of $58,000, you would take home approximately $48,642 per year ($4,053.46 per month) after federal income tax and FICA taxes.