Speech-Language Pathologist vs Genetic Counselor: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders.
Genetic Counselor
Assess hereditary disease risks and counsel patients on genetic testing options.
Genetic Counselor earns more on average — the national median is $1,708/year (2%) higher than a Speech-Language Pathologist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Speech-Language Pathologist vs Genetic Counselor — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Speech-Language Pathologist | Genetic Counselor | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $141,321 | $141,022 | Speech-Language +$299 |
| New York, NY | $119,548 | $120,948 | Speech-Language $1,400 |
| Seattle, WA | $139,695 | $145,082 | Speech-Language $5,387 |
| Austin, TX | $112,282 | $110,879 | Speech-Language +$1,403 |
| Chicago, IL | $103,493 | $108,510 | Speech-Language $5,017 |
| Boston, MA | $125,361 | $130,390 | Speech-Language $5,029 |
| London, UK | £74,721 | £77,497 | Speech-Language $2,776 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,294 | CA$135,338 | Speech-Language $9,044 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Speech-Language Pathologist or Genetic Counselor earn more?+
A Genetic Counselor earns more on average. The national median salary for a Speech-Language Pathologist is $97,870/year, compared to $99,578/year for a Genetic Counselor — a difference of $1,708 (2%).
Which has better career growth — Speech-Language Pathologist or Genetic Counselor?+
Speech-Language Pathologist roles are growing at 19% YoY while Genetic Counselor demand is growing at 18% YoY. Speech-Language Pathologist has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Speech-Language Pathologist to Genetic Counselor?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Speech-Language Pathologist or Genetic Counselor?+
Genetic Counselor has a lower AI automation risk (12% vs 12%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.