Academic Advisor Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$48,000
national median salary
$38,000 to $63,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$66,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$50,000
Honolulu, HI
Lowest Paying
$37,000
Jackson, MS
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Academic Advisor salary in the United States is $48,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $38,000 at the 25th percentile to $63,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $66,000, while Honolulu offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Institution type, caseload size, and specialization in areas like pre-medical advising or student-athlete support drive pay differences.
Academic Advisor salary by city
Skills that increase Academic Advisor pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Academic Advisors based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $6,720 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$6,720 per year
≈ +$6,240 per year
≈ +$5,760 per year
≈ +$5,280 per year
≈ +$5,280 per year
≈ +$4,800 per year
≈ +$4,800 per year
≈ +$4,320 per year
What you should know
Institution type, caseload size, and specialization in areas like pre-medical advising or student-athlete support drive pay differences. Advisors at large research universities and well-funded private institutions earn 15 to 25% more than those at community colleges or small colleges.
Entry-level Academic Advisors earn $38,000 to $44,000. Experienced advisors with specialized caseloads reach $46,000 to $56,000. Senior Advisors and Assistant Directors command $55,000 to $70,000, while Directors of Academic Advising at large universities earn $72,000 to $95,000.
University employment typically includes tuition remission worth $5,000 to $20,000 annually, pension contributions, and generous PTO. Health insurance benefits at universities are often stronger than private sector equivalents. Summer schedules may be lighter but not eliminated.