Salaries/Social Worker/San Francisco

Social Worker Salary in San Francisco

2026 compensation data for Social Worker positions in San Francisco. Ranges from $54,000 (entry-level) to $119,000 (senior).

Median (Mid)

$78,000

vs National

+5%

COL Index

180

Senior Max

$119,000

Salary Ranges by Experience Level

Entry-Level (0–2 years)$54,000$70,000
$54KMedian: $62,000$70K
Mid-Level (3–5 years)$68,000$92,000
$68KMedian: $78,000$92K
Senior (6+ years)$88,000$119,000
$88KMedian: $101,000$119K

Detailed Compensation Breakdown

LevelMinimumMedianMaximum
Entry-Level$54,000$62,000$70,000
Mid-Level$68,000$78,000$92,000
Senior$88,000$101,000$119,000

About Social Worker Salaries in San Francisco

The median social worker salary in San Francisco is $78,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 180 (national average = 100), San Francisco offers a higher cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.

Entry-level social workers in San Francisco can expect to earn between $54,000 and $70,000, while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $119,000.

These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets.

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