Social Worker Salary in Rhode Island
Social Worker pay in Rhode Island, explained
Social workers in Rhode Island earn a median of $69,870 per year ($33.59 per hour), which is 17% above the national median of $59,550. Entry-level workers earn around $42,560, while the most experienced social workers reach about $97,730. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within Rhode Island.
Is $69,870 good pay in Rhode Island?
Adjusted for Rhode Island's cost of living (which runs 102% of the U.S. average), that $69,870 is worth about $68,312 in national buying power — ranking Rhode Island #9 for real pay (vs #8 on the sticker number).
Social Worker pay by experience in Rhode Island
Social Worker pay in neighboring states
| State | Median / yr | Real pay | vs RI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island (here) | $69,870 | $68,312 | — |
| Connecticut | $78,970 | $76,219 | −$9,100 |
| Massachusetts | $75,570 | $71,456 | −$5,700 |
Social Worker in Rhode Island: FAQ
How much do social workers make in Rhode Island?
Social workers in Rhode Island earn a median of $69,870 per year ($33.59 per hour), compared with $59,550 nationally.
Does Rhode Island pay social workers well?
At $69,870, Rhode Island pays 17% above the national median for social workers. An estimated 2,450 work in the state.