Highest Paying States for Speech-Language Pathologists: Jobs & Salaries for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Individuals and households rely on speech-language pathologists (SLPs) for evaluating and treating speech, communication, and swallowing disorders. As the United States is home to 203,753 SLPs certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), there is a high demand for these professionals, and they are well compensated. So, which areas in the country offer the best wages?

This guide features the US states that pay the highest speech language pathologists salaries and the factors that influence their pay. To provide further value to readers, the article also explores the states and industries with the highest employment levels and the most ideal certifications, which can help boost one's salary and employability.

Key Things You Should Know About Speech Language Pathologists Salaries for 2025

The states that offer the highest average annual salaries to speech-language pathologists are California ($112,030), the District of Columbia ($111,110), Colorado ($107,780), Hawaii ($106,790), and New Jersey ($102,820).
The metropolitan areas in the United States that offer the highest average annual salaries are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($127,190); San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($123,830); Napa, CA ($119,750); Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($114,960); and Santa Rosa, CA ($113,920).
The average annual salary of speech-language pathologists in the United States is $95,840, while their median annual salary is $95,410.
A typical SLP's salary in the United States ranges from $60,480 to $132,850.
The US states with the highest employment levels for speech-language pathologists are Texas (18,790), California (17,270), New York (16,610), Illinois (8,260), and Florida (7,850).
The industries that employ the highest number of speech-language pathologists are elementary and secondary schools (67,640), offices of other health practitioners (42,750), general medical and surgical hospitals (19,290), nursing care facilities (5,770), and home health care facilities (5,660).

What are the highest-paying states for speech-language pathologists?
What are the highest-paying metropolitan areas for speech-language pathologists?
What is the average salary of speech-language pathologists?
What are the highest-paying industries for speech-language pathologists?
How can speech-language pathologists increase their earning potential?
Which states employ the most speech-language pathologists?
Which industries employ the most speech-language pathologists?
What are the possible career paths for aspiring speech-language pathologists?
Are Advanced Degrees Essential for Career Progression?
What challenges do speech-language pathologists commonly face?
Which educational programs best prepare speech-language pathologists for career advancement?
What is the job outlook for speech-language pathologists?
What are the top certifications for speech-language pathologists?
Where do speech-language pathologists work?
What are the salary trends that speech-language pathologists should take note of?
Other Things You Should Know About Speech Language Pathologists Salaries

What are the highest-paying states for speech-language pathologists?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as shown in the chart below, the states that offer the highest average annual salaries to speech-language pathologists are California ($112,030), the District of Columbia ($111,110), Colorado ($107,780), Hawaii ($106,790), and New Jersey ($102,820). These regions have plenty of high-paying opportunities and are popular destinations for SLPs in other states.

Meanwhile, the states with the lowest average annual salaries are South Dakota ($69,350), North Dakota ($72,900), Idaho ($73,890), Louisiana ($74,390), and West Virginia ($75,260). If other US territories are included, the lowest is Puerto Rico, which offers an average salary of $49,470. Even though these regions have the lowest mean salaries, they still offer a decent amount of worthwhile opportunities considering the high demand for SLPs.

What are the highest-paying metropolitan areas for speech-language pathologists?

Based on the BLS data, the metropolitan areas in the United States that offer the highest average annual salaries are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($127,190); San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($123,830); Napa, CA ($119,750); Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($114,960); Santa Rosa, CA ($113,920); Modesto, CA ($113,300); Boulder, CO ($113,130); Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($111,140); Danbury, CT ($111,140); and Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO ($110,980).

Meanwhile, the non-metropolitan areas that provide the highest average annual salaries are Southside Virginia ($108,350), Southwest Colorado ($107,720), Northern New Mexico ($107,390), Eastern New Mexico ($105,100), and Connecticut ($104,850).

These areas are viable destinations for aspirants and SLPs who are not satisfied with their wages. ASHA-certified speech-language pathologists have a lot of interoperability between states. However, to make sure to gain access to particular metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas, SLPs and aspirants are advised to state licensure requirements beforehand. They also need to have completed the educational requisites, which potentially include accredited online programs for speech language pathology.

What is the average salary of speech-language pathologists?

According to the BLS, the average annual speech language pathologist salary in the United States is $95,840, while their median annual salary is $95,410. The latter is nearly double the collective median annual salary for all professions in the country, $49,500. This makes SLPs well-paid professionals.

The speech language pathologists salaries range from $60,480 to $132,850, with entry-level roles earning around $60,000 to $75,000. Based on median salary, SLPs earn more than similar occupations like psychologists ($94,310), audiologists ($92,120), and respiratory therapists ($80,450).

What are the highest-paying industries for speech-language pathologists?

The industries that provide the highest average annual salaries for speech-language pathologists are civic and social organizations ($130,620), home health care services ($121,410), company management ($112,110), child care services ($109,110), and nursing care facilities ($108,640).

Not entering the highest-paying industries does not mean an SLP will not get their fair share of lucrative opportunities. These pathologists are generally paid well. According to the BLS, here are the median annual salaries of SLPs in various industries:

Nursing and Residential Care Facilities: $106,500
Hospitals: $101,560
Offices of Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapists, and Audiologists: $98,470
Educational Services: $80,280

Now, is a speech therapist the same as a speech pathologist? Check out our article on this topic to know the difference.

How can speech-language pathologists increase their earning potential?

Speech-language pathologists can increase their earning potential through a combination of specialization, advanced education, diverse work settings, and strategic career decisions. As the demand for speech-language services continues to grow across healthcare and educational sectors, SLPs have numerous pathways to boost their salaries while advancing their expertise.

The most viable strategies include the following:

Earn Advanced Certifications: Obtaining specialized certifications, such as the Board Certified Specialist in Swallowing (BCS-S), VitalStim® Therapy Provider, or PROMPT Certification, can position an SLP as an expert and justify higher pay in niche areas.
Pursue a Clinical Doctorate (SLPD or CScD): Earning a clinical doctorate in speech-language pathology can open doors to higher-paying roles in leadership, research, supervision, and academia.
Gain Experience in Medical Settings: Working in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, or outpatient clinics often pays more than school-based positions. Medical SLPs with dysphagia or neurogenic disorder expertise are in especially high demand.
Consider Travel SLP or Contract Roles: Taking short-term contracts or working as a travel SLP can offer higher hourly rates, tax-free stipends, and bonuses, especially in areas facing shortages.
Develop Bilingual Skills: SLPs who are fluent in Spanish, Mandarin, or other high-demand languages can serve a wider client base and negotiate higher pay, especially in diverse communities.
Pursue Leadership or Administrative Roles: Moving into roles such as clinic director, rehabilitation manager, or supervisor of clinical services can significantly increase salary while offering career advancement.
Offer Private Practice or Consulting Services: Running a private practice or offering independent consulting (e.g., corporate speech coaching, AAC consulting, accent modification) can substantially boost income and provide greater autonomy.
Engage in Telepractice: Expanding services through teletherapy allows SLPs to reach clients in underserved areas or across state lines, potentially increasing caseload and income flexibility.
Relocate to High-Paying Regions: States such as California, Connecticut, and New Jersey, as well as metro areas with shortages of SLPs, often offer higher salaries, signing bonuses, and relocation incentives.
Participate in Continuing Education and Workshops: Staying current with cutting-edge therapies, new technologies, and advanced clinical techniques makes an SLP more marketable and eligible for raises or specialized roles.

So is SLP a good career? Yes, especially if you apply these strategies and increase your earning potential.

Which states employ the most speech-language pathologists?

The US states with the highest employment levels for speech-language pathologists are Texas (18,790), California (17,270), New York (16,610), Illinois (8,260), and Florida (7,850). These regions are ideal choices for finding professional opportunities. However, a high employment level is not the only factor when seeking an area in which to practice.

A region with a high job concentration also implies a better likelihood of finding gainful employment. The states that have the highest SLP employment rate per thousand jobs are New York (1.77), Arkansas (1.75), Vermont (1.59), Louisiana (1.51), and North Dakota (1.47).

Which industries employ the most speech-language pathologists?

The industries that employ the highest number of speech-language pathologists are elementary and secondary schools (67,640), offices of other health practitioners (42,750), general medical and surgical hospitals (19,290), nursing care facilities (5,770), and home health care facilities (5,660). The employment level reflects the demand for a profession in an industry.

Meanwhile, the sectors with the highest percentage of industry employment for SLPs are offices of other health practitioners (3.75%), specialty hospitals (1.95%), elementary and secondary schools (0.79%), nursing care facilities (0.42%), and home health care facilities (0.35%). Interestingly, some of the industries with the highest employment levels also have the highest job concentration, so aspirants can prioritize those sectors when seeking gainful employment.

What are the possible career paths for aspiring speech-language pathologists?

Aspiring speech-language pathologists have access to a broad spectrum of career opportunities across diverse settings, each offering distinct roles and valuable experiences, given the broad training from on-ground and online SLP programs. With growing awareness of communication disorders and an aging population driving demand, the field of speech-language pathology promises strong job security and the rewarding chance to make a daily difference in people’s lives.

Here are some of the primary career paths available to new SLPs:

School-Based SLPs: Many SLPs work in preschools, K–12 schools, and higher education, helping children and young adults overcome speech, language, and communication challenges. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to support students’ communication development, including services for bilingual learners. But can you become a speech pathologist with an education degree? Yes. There are ways for you to transition from a career as a teacher to a career as an SLP.
Healthcare Settings: Roughly 39% of SLPs are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities. In these settings, they assist patients with communication and swallowing disorders caused by injury, illness, or aging, often working alongside interdisciplinary medical teams.
Private Practice: Some SLPs choose to open their own clinics or join group practices, delivering therapy to clients of all ages with diverse speech and language needs. Private practice offers flexibility, autonomy, and opportunities for specialization.
Research and Academia: SLPs can pursue careers as researchers or university faculty, conducting studies on speech and language disorders or educating future clinicians in academic settings.
Management and Leadership: With experience, SLPs may move into supervisory, managerial, or executive roles within healthcare systems, schools, or rehabilitation centers, overseeing programs, services, and teams of professionals.
Specialized Roles: Many SLPs focus on niche areas such as pediatric speech pathology, fluency disorders, voice therapy, swallowing disorders, neurological communication disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), or serving multicultural and bilingual populations. You may also work hand in hand with special education teachers in helping students with special needs overcome speech impediments. If being a SPED teacher interests you more, learn more by looking into: What does a special education teacher do.

The visual below displays the highest-paying industries for SLPs

Are Advanced Degrees Essential for Career Progression?

Continuous professional education can distinguish experienced speech-language pathologists from their peers. Advanced degrees and specialized training not only deepen clinical expertise but also open pathways to leadership roles and advanced practice opportunities. For instance, enrolling in programs like masters in communication disorders online equips professionals with cutting-edge methodologies and a stronger foundation in addressing complex communication disorders. This commitment to ongoing education is increasingly valued by employers seeking candidates who demonstrate both clinical excellence and a proactive approach to lifelong learning.

What challenges do speech-language pathologists commonly face?

Speech-language pathologists often encounter a range of professional challenges that can affect both clinical practice and career advancement. These challenges include managing high caseloads while maintaining quality individualized care, adapting to evolving regulatory and licensure requirements, and integrating new technologies such as teletherapy into traditional service models. Additionally, balancing administrative burdens with clinical responsibilities can lead to increased workload stress. Professionals interested in diversifying their expertise can explore parallel career opportunities, such as examining how to become an audiologist, which provides insights into related disciplines and collaborative practices.

Which educational programs best prepare speech-language pathologists for career advancement?

Selecting a robust educational pathway is pivotal for achieving clinical excellence and advancing in today’s competitive market. Prospective SLPs should assess programs based on curriculum comprehensiveness, hands-on clinical practica, and integration of evidence‑based practices. Institutions that offer a blend of theoretical grounding and practical experience, including ASHA accredited online SLP programs, provide a solid foundation for long-term career growth.

What is the job outlook for speech-language pathologists?

Speech-language pathologists are currently in demand. According to the BLS, the employment of SLPs is projected to increase by a notable 18% from 2023 to 2033, more than four times greater than the national average (4%). This implies that speech-language pathology graduates will not have too much trouble entering the industry.

As far as job openings are concerned, aspirants can expect around 13,700 each year in the given period. The job portal Indeed gives a much higher estimation, currently with over 30,000 openings for speech-language pathologists.

The relatively high number of people in the United States who deal with speech-language concerns lends credence to the high demand for SLPs. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, 7.7% of youngsters aged 3-17 experienced a speech, voice, language, or swallowing disorder in the past year. In addition, 7.6% of individuals 18 or older suffered from a voice disorder in the past year.

What are the top certifications for speech-language pathologists?

Obtaining advanced certifications can elevate the skills of SLPs and potentially increase their salaries. After all, these credentials serve as proof of competency in particular areas of speech-language pathology. Here are some of the certifications that aspirants and SLPs should prioritize:

Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP): Offered by the ASHA, the CCC-SLP certification serves as the foundational and most essential certification for practicing SLPs. Requirements include a graduate degree in speech-language pathology, completion of at least 400 supervised clinical hours, passing a national exam, and completing a clinical fellowship. This certification is frequently mandated for state licensure and stands as a key credential demonstrating clinical competence and adherence to professional ethics.
Board Certified Specialist in Child Language (BCS-CL): This certification is designed for SLPs who specialize in their work with children and adolescents up to the age of 21. Eligibility necessitates at least five years of full-time experience post-CCC-SLP and the completion of 100 hours of advanced training specifically related to child language disorders. It signifies a high level of expertise in pediatric speech-language pathology and is awarded by the American Board of Child Language and Language Disorders.
Board Certified Specialist in Fluency (BCS-F): For SLPs whose primary focus is on fluency disorders such as stuttering and cluttering, this certification has specific requirements. These include five years of professional experience, documentation of 450 clinical hours directly involving fluency disorders, completion of 100 hours of specialized training in fluency, and the submission of letters of recommendation. It serves as validation of advanced skills in the treatment of fluency disorders.
Board Certified Specialist in Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders (BCS-S): This credential is for SLPs who dedicate a significant portion of their practice to clients with dysphagia (swallowing disorders). Applicants must possess at least three years of clinical experience post-CCC-SLP with a focus on swallowing, demonstrate ongoing continuing education in the area of dysphagia, and provide evidence of advanced clinical or leadership experience within the specialty. It recognizes a high level of specialized expertise in swallowing assessment and therapy.
Clinical Specialty Certification (CSC) in Other Areas: Beyond the established BCS credentials, various other specialty certifications exist that enable SLPs to demonstrate focused expertise in more specific areas of practice. Examples include augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), neurogenic communication disorders, or voice therapy. Achieving these certifications typically involves the completion of additional training, accumulation of specific clinical experience, and in some cases, the successful completion of specialty examinations.

Where do speech-language pathologists work?

SLPs work in a wide variety of settings, each offering unique client populations, job roles, and work environments. Their versatile skills allow them to support individuals across the lifespan, from infants to older adults, in both healthcare and educational contexts. Moreover, the communication disorders treated by speech language pathologists require various competencies and traits that can be leveraged in different environments.

Here is a breakdown of an SLP's most common workplaces:

Schools (K–12 Public and Private): SLPs in schools help children with speech, language, and communication challenges that affect learning and social interaction. They work with students individually or in small groups and often collaborate with teachers and special education teams.
Early Intervention Programs (Birth to Age 3): In early intervention, SLPs work with infants and toddlers who have developmental delays or communication disorders. Services are typically provided in homes or community settings and focus on coaching parents and caregivers.
Hospitals (Acute Care and Inpatient Rehab): Hospital-based speech-language pathologists evaluate and manage communication and swallowing challenges in adult and pediatric populations resulting from events like strokes, brain injuries, surgery, or various medical conditions. These settings frequently present SLPs with medically intricate cases requiring rapid assessment and intervention.
Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) and Long-Term Care: In SNFs, SLPs primarily address swallowing disorders (dysphagia), cognitive-communication deficits, and speech-language issues in older adults, especially those recovering from strokes, dementia, or progressive illnesses.
Outpatient Clinics and Private Practices: Outpatient clinics and private practices offer speech-language pathologists the opportunity to deliver tailored therapy to children and adults. In these settings, SLPs address an array of communication needs, including speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders, often benefiting from greater flexibility and the chance to specialize in particular areas of practice.
Home Health Care: SLPs working in home health visit clients in their homes, often focusing on rehabilitation after hospital discharge. They frequently assist adults recovering from strokes, brain injuries, or surgeries, offering functional communication and swallowing therapy in natural settings.
Telepractice/Teletherapy: SLPs provide remote therapy using video conferencing platforms. This setting has grown rapidly and allows SLPs to work with clients across state lines, beneficial for underserved or rural populations. It offers flexibility and eliminates geographic barriers. Interested parties can consult resources on how to start a career in online therapy and the necessary software solutions.
Universities and Research Institutions: SLPs in academic settings may teach, conduct research, or supervise student clinicians in university clinics. They contribute to advancing the field through research and preparing the next generation of SLPs.
Corporate/Business Settings: Some SLPs work in corporate environments, providing accent modification, professional voice coaching, and presentation skills training to business professionals. Others may consult with companies that develop AAC devices or speech technology.
Travel SLP Positions: Travel SLPs take short-term contracts (often 8–13 weeks) in schools, hospitals, or clinics around the country. These roles offer higher pay, travel stipends, and the opportunity to work in diverse locations.

The visual below shows the US states with the most SLPs.

What are the salary trends that speech-language pathologists should take note of?

With the field of speech-language pathology undergoing rapid changes, salary trends are also in flux, driven by a rising demand for specialized services. For speech-language pathologists aiming to make informed career choices and optimize their earning potential, understanding the following trends is essential:

Steady Salary Growth Driven by Demand: The ongoing increase in demand for SLP services, especially due to aging populations, rising autism diagnoses, and expanded early intervention programs, is contributing to gradual, steady salary growth across most settings.
Higher Salaries in Medical and Skilled Nursing Settings: SLPs working in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and skilled nursing facilities consistently earn more than their counterparts in school settings, largely due to the complex nature of medical cases and higher reimbursement rates.
Regional Salary Disparities: Salaries vary significantly by state and region, with California, New Jersey, Connecticut, and select metro areas offering higher wages, often paired with higher costs of living. Rural and underserved areas may offer incentives or signing bonuses to attract SLPs.
Increased Pay for Specialized Skills and Certifications: A notable trend in speech-language pathology salaries is the increased compensation for specialized skills and certifications. SLPs who have pursued advanced credentials (e.g., BCS-S) or developed expertise in specific areas like dysphagia, voice therapy, or AAC are finding their niche skills highly valued, resulting in higher earning potential. Therapies like VitalStim, LSVT LOUD, and PROMPT also contribute to this increased demand and pay.
Rising Opportunities in Telepractice: The rapid expansion of teletherapy has not only increased job flexibility but also opened avenues for SLPs to serve clients in high-demand, underserved areas, allowing some clinicians to diversify income streams and negotiate higher rates, especially for specialty services.

Learners who are not confident with their initial skills can take any of the easiest online SLP programs to get into. After all, online education has become a trend given its convenience and generally lower costs.

Here's What Speech-Language Pathologists Have to Say About Their Jobs

"The intellectual challenge of diagnosing complex communication disorders and then developing individualized treatment plans keeps me constantly engaged and learning. It's a privilege to apply my knowledge and skills in such a meaningful way, directly impacting individuals' lives and helping them overcome significant hurdles." – Ed

"The flexibility and variety in speech-language pathology keep my career exciting, whether I’m working in schools, hospitals, or private practice. Knowing that my expertise improves quality of life for people of all ages fills me with pride and purpose every day." – Debbie

"Working as a travel speech-language pathologist has allowed me to explore new places while advancing my career. I enjoy the flexibility, competitive pay, and the chance to collaborate with diverse teams in different healthcare settings." – Grace

Other Things You Should Know About Speech Language Pathologists Salaries

What is the difference between a speech-language pathologist and a speech therapist?

There is no significant difference between a speech-language pathologist (SLP) and a speech therapist; both terms refer to the same profession dedicated to assessing, diagnosing, and treating communication and swallowing disorders. "Speech-language pathologist" is the more formal and preferred title, highlighting advanced training and a broader scope that includes language, cognition, and swallowing, while "speech therapist" is a commonly used, less formal term for the same role.

Can one become a speech-language pathologist with only a bachelor's degree?

No, a bachelor's degree alone does not qualify someone to be a licensed speech-language pathologist. Aspiring SLPs must pursue and complete a master's degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited institution, alongside accumulating supervised clinical hours and securing state licensure. Nevertheless, a bachelor's degree in communication sciences and disorders, or a closely related field, is generally the initial academic step for those aiming to enroll in a graduate SLP program.

What is the best major to become an SLP?

The best major to become a speech-language pathologist is communication sciences and disorders (CSD) or a closely related field. This undergraduate major provides foundational knowledge in speech, language, hearing, and swallowing that prepares students for entry into a graduate speech-language pathology program. If a CSD major isn’t available, degrees in linguistics, psychology, education, or biology can also be suitable, though additional prerequisite courses may be required for graduate admission.

Can speech therapy be done virtually?

Yes, speech therapy can be done virtually through telepractice using secure video conferencing platforms. Virtual speech therapy allows SLPs to provide assessment and treatment services to clients in remote or underserved areas, offering flexibility and convenience for both therapists and patients. Research shows that teletherapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many communication and language disorders.

References:

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (2024, August). Annual Workforce Data: 2023 ASHA-Certified Audiologist- and Speech-Language Pathologist-to-Population Ratios. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
BLS (2024, April 3). 29-1127 Speech-Language Pathologists. BLS
BLS (2025, May 8). Industry: Cross-industry, Private, Federal, State, and Local Government Period: May 2024. BLS
BLS (2025, April 18). Speech-Language Pathologists. BLS
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (2025, March 11). Quick Statistics About Voice, Speech, Language. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders