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Healthcare Social Workers
SOC 21-1022 · Healthcare & Social Services · Behavioral health
jobs in Hamilton County, 2026
estimated openings each year
median pay in Hamilton County
projected job growth
Source: Lightcast Q1 2026 occupation snapshot, Hamilton County, IN.
What this job pays in the Indianapolis area
Half of workers earn more than the median, half earn less. The range below runs from the 10th to the 90th percentile.
| Point in the range | Per year | Per hour |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $48,570 | $23.35 |
| 25th percentile | $59,310 | $28.52 |
| Median (middle) | $65,090 | $31.29 |
| 75th percentile | $79,700 | $38.32 |
| 90th percentile | $95,940 | $46.13 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 release, Indianapolis-Carmel-Greenwood MSA. Hamilton County employers often pay above the metro median for skilled roles. "Not published" means the federal source suppressed or top-coded that value.
What you need to get started
Most common education: A master's degree.
How much preparation: Extensive preparation. Graduate school or many years of experience.
Source: O*NET database, U.S. Department of Labor (2021-2023 vintages).
Where this role can lead
Upward moves documented from real job changes in this region, with how pay typically changes.
| Occupation | Match score | Monthly postings | Typical pay change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | 88 of 100 | 68.8 | -$7,463 per year |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 68 of 100 | 354.7 | -$9,140 per year |
Common paths into this role
Jobs people often hold before moving into Healthcare Social Workers.
| Occupation | Match score | Monthly postings | Typical pay change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | 89 of 100 | 15.8 | -$44,496 per year |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | 88 of 100 | 68.8 | -$7,463 per year |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | 88 of 100 | 27.7 | -$17,354 per year |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | 85 of 100 | 96.9 | -$56,948 per year |
| Therapists, All Other | 84 of 100 | 5.5 | -$42,030 per year |
| Social and Community Service Managers | 79 of 100 | 10.8 | -$39,039 per year |
This role is a documented next step from
Source: Lightcast Career Pathways, Q1 2026, Indianapolis MSA (network built July 2026 from 64 exports).