How Much Does a Community Health Worker Make? Salary, Factors & More

So, you’re thinking about a career as a community health worker? That’s awesome. It’s a rewarding field where you can make a real difference. But let’s be real, we all gotta pay the bills. You’re probably wondering, “How much do these folks actually make?”

We’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll break down community health worker salaries, explore the things that affect your pay, and even help you figure out if this is the right path for you.

Here’s the rundown:

• Average community health worker salary
• Factors influencing pay (location, experience, education)
• Is a community health worker career right for you?

Speaking of community, have you heard of the Illinois Community Health Workers Association (ILCHWA)? We’re a fantastic resource for CHWs in Illinois, providing support, training, and advocacy. Check us out!

Average Community Health Worker Salary

You want to know how much you can earn as a community health worker. It’s a valid question, and we’re here to give you the lowdown. Keep in mind that salaries can bounce around based on a few different things, but we’ll give you a solid starting point.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for community health workers in the U.S. was $48,200 as of May 2023. That means half of all CHWs earned more than this, and half earned less. Not too shabby, right?

This is just the national average. Your actual earnings could be higher or lower depending on where you live, your experience, and your education. We’ll dig deeper into these factors in a bit.

Here’s a quick snapshot of the salary range:

• Lowest 10%: $35,560 per year
• Highest 10%: $75,980 per year

As you can see, there’s quite a bit of variation. So, how can you land on the higher end of that spectrum? Keep reading to find out!

Why Your Paycheck Might Look Different

So, we know the national average. But why is there such a range in community health worker salaries? Well, a few key ingredients go into the mix:

1. Location

Think about it: the cost of living in New York City is way different than in a small town in Kansas. That affects everything, including salaries. Generally, you can expect to earn more in big cities and states with a higher cost of living. But it’s not just about the city. Different states have different demands for CHWs. Some states might have more robust public health programs or a greater need for community health services, leading to higher pay.

Pro Tip: Websites like Glassdoor and Indeed let you filter salary data by location. This gives you a more realistic idea of what to expect in your area.

2. Experience Matters

This one’s pretty straightforward. Like most jobs, the more experience you have under your belt, the more valuable you become. A seasoned CHW with years of experience working with diverse communities will likely command a higher salary than someone just starting out. Think of it like leveling up in a video game. As you gain experience and skills, you unlock new opportunities and higher earning potential.

3. Education: It’s Not Just About the Degree

While a bachelor’s degree in public health or a related field can give you a leg up, it’s not always a must-have for CHWs. Many positions require a high school diploma and some certifications. But here’s the thing: continuing education and specialized certifications can boost your earning power. Think about getting certified in areas like diabetes education, mental health, or substance abuse. These extra credentials show that you have advanced skills and knowledge, making you a more desirable candidate.

Pro Tip: ILCHWA offers various training resources to help you advance your career and increase your earning potential. We even have resources to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of certifications.

Focusing on these three factors—location, experience, and education—can position you for success and a higher salary in the community health field.

Is This Really Your Dream Job?

You know the salary potential. But is becoming a community health worker the right move for you? It’s not just about the Benjamins, right? This job is all about passion, dedication, and a genuine desire to help others.

Let’s do a quick gut check. Does this sound like you?

• You’re a people person: You love connecting with people from all walks of life. Building trust and rapport comes naturally to you.
• You’re passionate about health: You want to make a difference in the health and well-being of your community.
• You’re a problem-solver: You’re not afraid to tackle tough challenges and find creative solutions.
• You’re culturally competent: You understand and respect the diverse cultures within your community.

If you’re nodding your head yes, then a career as a CHW might be right up your alley! But let’s be honest, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. This job can be demanding, both physically and emotionally. You’ll be working with people who are facing real struggles, and you need to be prepared to handle that with compassion and resilience.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Am I comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds?
• Am I a good listener?
• Can I handle difficult situations with empathy and professionalism?
• Am I willing to advocate for others?
• Am I passionate about making a difference in my community?

If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, then you might have found your calling.

Still not sure? Reach out to ILCHWA. We can connect you with experienced CHWs who can share their experiences and give you a realistic picture of what the job is like. We can also provide guidance on training programs and career paths.

Ready to Make a Difference (and a Living)?

We’ve covered the ins and outs of community health worker salaries, the factors that influence pay, and whether this career might be your perfect fit. It’s a rewarding field with the potential to make a real impact on people’s lives.

Key takeaways

• The median annual salary for CHWs in the U.S. is $48,200.
• Location, experience, and education can significantly affect your earning potential.
• Community health work is a demanding but fulfilling career for those passionate about helping others.

Want to connect with other CHWs in Illinois and boost your career? Don’t forget to check out ILCHWA. We offer tons of resources, training, and support to help you thrive in this awesome field. And we are basically your one-stop shop for all things community health in Illinois.