Licensed Social Worker Salary Data

Based on 126 real salary reports from LSW holders across the United States

$62,802

Average salary

$28,800 – $110,000

Salary range

States represented

DC, IL, IN, MN, NJ, OH, PA, UT

126

Records

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What is a LSW?

The Licensed Social Worker (LSW) is an entry-level or mid-level license available in many states for social workers with a bachelor's or master's degree. It authorizes general social work practice under supervision but typically does not permit independent clinical practice.

Requirements

Requirements vary by state. Some states grant the LSW to BSW holders, while others require an MSW. All require passing the appropriate ASWB exam (Bachelor's or Master's level).

LSW salary by state

Average Licensed Social Worker salaries across US states, based on self-reported data

State	Avg salary	Range	Reports
DC	$72,250	$68,000 – $80,000	4
NJ	$70,136	$43,000 – $93,600	23
UT	$65,853	$61,000 – $70,000	3
MN	$61,400	$48,000 – $78,000	5
OH	$60,542	$47,500 – $80,000	12
IL	$58,857	$43,000 – $72,000	14
PA	$56,067	$28,800 – $73,000	12
IN	$53,889	$42,000 – $60,000	9

LSW salary charts

Visual breakdowns of Licensed Social Worker compensation data

Where do LSW holders earn the most?

Top states by average LSW salary — hover for min/max range

Lighter bars indicate fewer reports — interpret with caution

How have LSW salaries changed over time?

Average LSW salary tracked across survey periods from 2021 to 2026

Smaller, lighter dots indicate fewer reports — interpret with caution

Does more experience mean higher LSW pay?

Each dot is one LSW salary report — see how pay scales with years in the field

Lighter bars indicate fewer reports — interpret with caution

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between LSW and LCSW?

An LSW is an entry-level license for general social work practice, often under supervision. An LCSW is an advanced clinical license that allows independent practice, diagnosis, and psychotherapy.

Can an LSW provide therapy?

In most states, an LSW cannot provide independent therapy. Some states allow limited therapeutic services under clinical supervision. Check your state's specific scope of practice.

How do I upgrade from LSW to LCSW?

You will need an MSW degree (if you don't already have one), completion of supervised post-graduate clinical hours, and passing the ASWB Clinical exam. The process typically takes 2-3 years after earning your MSW.

Related credentials

LCSWLicensed Clinical Social Worker LMSWLicensed Master Social Worker BSWBachelor of Social Work

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