SLPA Salary Guide: How Much Do SLPAs Make in 2025?
- alykomerch
- Feb 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 12
Posted on February 20th, 2025
Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs) play a vital role in supporting licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) in various settings, including schools, private clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. If you're considering a career as an SLPA or are already in the field and curious about salary trends, this guide breaks down how much SLPAs make in 2025, what factors influence salaries, and how you can increase your earning potential.
*As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases through the links provided in this post. This comes at no additional cost to you, and it helps support the creation of more helpful content.
How Much Do SLPAs Make in 2025?
As of 2025, the average annual salary for an SLPA in the United States is approximately $71,392, with total compensation (including bonuses and benefits) reaching around $76,550. However, SLPA salaries can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, work setting, and additional certifications.
SLPA Salary by State (2025 Estimates)
The table below provides a breakdown of estimated average SLPA salaries across all 50 states:
State | Estimated Average Salary (2025) |
Alabama | $55,000 |
Alaska | $70,000 |
Arizona | $65,000 |
Arkansas | $53,000 |
California | $70,694 |
Colorado | $60,000 |
Connecticut | $68,000 |
Delaware | $66,000 |
Florida | $60,000 |
Georgia | $58,000 |
Hawaii | $62,000 |
Idaho | $54,000 |
Illinois | $65,000 |
Indiana | $56,000 |
Iowa | $55,000 |
Kansas | $54,000 |
Kentucky | $53,000 |
Louisiana | $52,000 |
Maine | $57,000 |
Maryland | $68,000 |
Massachusetts | $70,000 |
Michigan | $58,000 |
Minnesota | $57,710 |
Mississippi | $51,000 |
Missouri | $54,000 |
Montana | $52,000 |
Nebraska | $53,000 |
Nevada | $62,000 |
New Hampshire | $57,303 |
New Jersey | $68,000 |
New Mexico | $55,000 |
New York | $70,000 |
North Carolina | $58,000 |
North Dakota | $54,000 |
Ohio | $60,000 |
Oklahoma | $53,000 |
Oregon | $62,000 |
Pennsylvania | $60,000 |
Rhode Island | $57,704 |
South Carolina | $55,000 |
South Dakota | $52,000 |
Tennessee | $54,000 |
Texas | $60,000 |
Utah | $55,000 |
Vermont | $56,000 |
Virginia | $58,000 |
Washington | $65,000 |
West Virginia | $52,000 |
Wisconsin | $57,000 |
Wyoming | $53,000 |
Factors That Influence SLPA Salaries
Several factors determine an SLPA’s salary, including:
1. Geographic Location
Salaries vary by state due to differences in cost of living and demand for SLPAs. For example, California and Massachusetts tend to have higher SLPA salaries due to the high cost of living, whereas states like Mississippi and Arkansas may have lower salaries.
2. Work Setting
Salaries can differ based on the work environment:
Schools: Typically pay less than hospitals and private clinics but offer steady hours and benefits.
Private Practice: Can offer higher salaries, especially in areas with high demand.
Hospitals & Rehabilitation Centers: Often pay well due to the medical setting, but may require additional training.
3. Experience Level
Entry-level SLPAs earn less than those with several years of experience. Typically:
0-2 years: $50,000 - $60,000
3-5 years: $60,000 - $70,000
5+ years: $70,000+
4. Certifications & Specializations
SLPAs with specialized training in areas such as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) or bilingual speech therapy can command higher salaries.
How to Increase Your SLPA Salary
If you want to boost your earning potential as an SLPA, consider these strategies:
✅ Gain More Experience – The longer you work in the field, the higher your salary potential.
✅ Specialize – Additional training in AAC, bilingual therapy, or other niche areas can increase your marketability.
✅ Consider Relocation – Moving to a higher-paying state can make a significant difference in salary.
✅ Work in Different Settings – Private schools and clinics often pay more than public schools.
✅ Negotiate Your Salary – Always negotiate when starting a new job or during performance reviews.
Is Being an SLPA a Good Career Choice?
For those passionate about speech-language pathology but not wanting to commit to a full master’s program, becoming an SLPA is a rewarding career with solid job growth. The demand for SLPAs is expected to rise, making it a stable and fulfilling profession.
Final Thoughts
SLPA salaries in 2025 vary based on location, setting, experience, and additional qualifications. While entry-level positions may start around $50,000, experienced SLPAs in high-demand areas can earn upwards of $75,000. By gaining experience, pursuing specialized training, and considering different work settings, you can maximize your earning potential in this rewarding field.
📩 Join My Community!
📩 Join my email list for more SLPA and school-based speech tips!
➡️ Check out my Teachers Pay Teachers store for more resources!
➡️ Check out my Etsy store for unique speech therapy materials!
➡️ Check out my Boom Learning store for interactive speech therapy activities!
About the Author
Hi! I’m Kim, and I’ve been a licensed Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) for nearly a decade. I have a B.S. in Speech-Language Pathology and have worked in elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools, providing services to students in general education and special day classes. I created this blog to share my experiences and help other SLPAs navigate their school-based speech therapy journey.