Social Worker in Longview, TX

The Salary Picture: Where Longview Stands

If you’re considering a move to Longview, TX, as a social worker, the first question you’re asking is: can I afford it? Let’s get straight to the numbers, because they tell the clearest story.

The median salary for social workers in the Longview metropolitan area is $58,742/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.24/hour. This figure is pulled from the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for the Tyler-Longview-Jacksonville metro area. It’s important to understand that this is the median—meaning half of all social workers in the area earn more, and half earn less. This number typically represents a mix of experience levels, from those just starting out to seasoned professionals.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect at different stages of your career in the Longview area:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Typical Role in Longview
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$45,000 - $52,000	Case Manager, School Counselor (assistant), Community Health Assistant
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$55,000 - $68,000	Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at a hospital, School Social Worker, Clinic Therapist
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$70,000 - $85,000	Program Director (non-profit), Clinical Supervisor, Medical Social Worker Lead
Expert/Leadership (15+ years)	$85,000+	Director of Social Services, Chief Clinical Officer, Private Practice Owner

Now, let’s put Longview’s $58,742 in context. The national average for social workers is $60,860/year. Longview sits slightly below the national average, which is common for many regional Texas cities. However, the key is the cost of living. Longview’s cost of living index is 88.4, compared to the U.S. average of 100. This means your dollar stretches significantly further here than it does in larger, more expensive markets.

When you compare Longview to other Texas metros:

• Dallas-Fort Worth: Social workers here can earn a median of ~$65,000+, but the cost of living is higher, and housing is far more expensive. A comparable 1BR apartment might cost $1,200-$1,500+.
• Houston: Median salaries are similar to Dallas, approaching the $60,000-$65,000 range, but the urban sprawl and traffic can mean longer commutes.
• San Antonio: Salaries often trend slightly lower than Dallas/Houston, closer to $58,000-$62,000, with a cost of living that’s more moderate.
• Tyler (the other major city in the East Texas region): Salaries are very similar to Longview, often within a few thousand dollars, as both cities share the same regional job market and hospital systems.

Insider Tip: While the median salary is a solid baseline, the real financial advantage in Longview comes from the lower overhead. A salary of $58,742 in Longview often provides a better quality of life and savings potential than a $65,000 salary in a larger, more expensive Texas city.

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The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s break down what a social worker earning the median salary of $58,742/year can realistically expect to take home each month in Longview.

1. Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay:

• Annual Gross: $58,742
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, FICA, State): ~$11,500 (using standard deductions and TX state tax, which is 0%)
• Estimated Monthly Net Pay: ~$3,937 (This is a pre-tax and pre-retirement contribution estimate. Your actual take-home will vary based on benefits, retirement contributions (like a 403b), and health insurance premiums.)

2. Monthly Budget Breakdown:
The average 1-bedroom apartment in Longview rents for $930/month. Let’s build a practical monthly budget.

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Average)	$930	You can find options from $800 (older buildings, some areas) to $1,100+ (newer complexes, premium locations).
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	$180	Electricity is the big variable. TX summers are hot.
Groceries	$350	For one person, shopping at local H-E-B or Brookshire's.
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$500	Highly dependent on your vehicle. Longview is car-dependent; public transport is limited.
Health Insurance (Employer Share)	$250	Varies widely by employer.
Retirement/Discretionary Savings	$300	This is where you build wealth.
Misc. (Phone, Subscriptions, Personal Care)	$250
Total Estimated Expenses	$2,760
Remaining (Buffer/Savings)	~$1,177	This is your flexibility for travel, hobbies, or unexpected costs.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, absolutely. With a $1,177 monthly buffer after essential expenses, homeownership is a realistic goal for a social worker in Longview. The median home price in the Longview area is approximately $180,000 - $220,000. A 20% down payment on a $200,000 home is $40,000. With a disciplined savings plan (e.g., putting $500/month into a dedicated home fund), you could save a down payment in 5-7 years. Many local social workers partner with a spouse or partner to accelerate this timeline. If you have $58,742 as a single income, buying a starter home is feasible without being house-poor.

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Where the Jobs Are: Longview's Major Employers

Longview’s job market for social workers is anchored by healthcare, education, and non-profit services. The BLS reports 168 jobs for social workers in the metro area, indicating a stable but not overly saturated market. Here’s where you should be looking:

1. Longview Regional Medical Center & Christus Health Mother Frances Hospital: These are the two major hospital systems. They are the largest employers for Medical Social Workers (especially in the ER, oncology, and discharge planning) and Behavioral Health staff. Hiring trends show a steady demand for licensed professionals (LCSW) to handle complex cases and patient advocacy.
2. Longview Independent School District (LISD) & Gilmer ISD: School social workers are critical here, especially in a region with significant socioeconomic diversity. They are often hired to work in Title I schools, addressing issues like truancy, family support, and mental health. A Texas teaching certification is often required alongside a social work license. Hiring is typically seasonal, peaking in late spring for the next academic year.
3. The East Texas Crisis Center: A cornerstone non-profit providing shelter and support for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. They employ social workers for crisis intervention, case management, and counseling. This is a high-need, mission-driven environment.
4. Andrews Center Behavioral Health System: The primary community mental health provider for the region. They offer a full continuum of care, from outpatient therapy to inpatient services. They hire LCSWs, therapists, and case managers. This is a major employer for those seeking roles in public mental health.
5. Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS): The local DFPS office handles child protective services, foster care, and Adult Protective Services. These are government jobs with clear career ladders but can be high-stress. Hiring is consistent due to turnover.
6. Goodwill Industries of East Texas: Beyond retail, Goodwill provides job training and community support services. They employ social workers for vocational rehabilitation and client case management.
7. Private Practice Groups: While smaller than in major metros, there are growing opportunities for LCSWs in private practice, often within larger healthcare clinics or solo practices. This is a path for higher earnings ($70,000+) after gaining experience.

Insider Tip: Many of the best jobs aren’t posted publicly. Build a network with social workers already in the area. The Longview Regional Medical Center and Christus Health are the best first call for hospital-based roles, while LISD is the go-to for school positions.

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Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has a clear, state-regulated path to licensure, administered by the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners (TSBSWE). The process is straightforward but requires time and paperwork.

1. Education: You must have a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This is non-negotiable for most clinical roles.
2. Post-Graduation Supervision: After graduation, you must complete a period of supervised experience under a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). This is typically 3,000 hours over a minimum of 24 months. In Longview, you can find LCSW supervisors through the local mental health providers, hospitals, or private practices. Expect to pay $75-$150 per hour for supervision.
3. Exam: You must pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Examination.
4. Licensure Application: Submit your application to the TSBSWE, including transcripts, proof of supervised hours, and exam scores. The application fee is $246 (as of 2023), and the license fee is another $246.

Timeline to Get Started:

• If you enter with an MSW and are already licensed (LMSW or LCSW) from another state, the process is a licensure by endorsement. This can take 2-4 months. Texas has reciprocity agreements with many states, but you may need to provide proof of supervised hours.
• If you are a recent MSW graduate, you will start as a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW). You can work under supervision. The full timeline to become an LCSW (independent clinical license) is 2-3 years post-graduation.

The Verdict on Cost: Budget $1,000-$1,500 for the initial process (exam fees, application fees, supervision costs). It’s a significant investment, but it’s essential for career advancement and higher salaries in Texas.

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Best Neighborhoods for Social Workers

Longview is a sprawling, car-centric city. Your choice of neighborhood will impact your commute, lifestyle, and rent. Here’s a local’s guide:

1. South Longview (Around the Medical Center):

   • Vibe: The professional corridor. Close to Longview Regional Medical Center, shopping at the Longview Mall, and newer apartment complexes.
   • Commute: Excellent for hospital workers (5-10 mins).
   • Rent Estimates: $950 - $1,200/month for modern 1BR apartments.
   • Best For: Social workers in hospital systems who want a short commute and modern amenities.

2. The "Booker T. Washington" / Downtown Adjacent Area:

   • Vibe: Historic, with a mix of older homes, revitalizing commercial spaces, and a growing arts scene. It’s diverse and walkable in pockets.
   • Commute: Central to everything. 10-15 mins to most employers.
   • Rent Estimates: $800 - $1,000/month for older 1BR apartments or small houses.
   • Best For: Those who want character, a central location, and don’t mind a slightly longer commute.

3. West Longview / Gilmer Road Corridor:

   • Vibe: Family-oriented, quieter suburbs. This area leads to the nearby town of Gilmer and offers more space.
   • Commute: 15-20 minutes to the medical center and downtown, but easy highway access.
   • Rent Estimates: $850 - $1,100/month for 1BRs and 2BRs in complexes or single-family home rentals.
   • Best For: Social workers who want a quieter, residential feel and don’t mind a short drive.

4. North Longview / US 259 Corridor:

   • Vibe: A mix of older neighborhoods and newer subdivisions. Close to the Christus Health Mother Frances hospital and the Andrews Center.
   • Commute: Varies, but generally 10-15 minutes to major employers.
   • Rent Estimates: $850 - $1,050/month.
   • Best For: A good balance of affordability and access to both major hospital systems.

Insider Tip: Traffic in Longview is not terrible, but the main arteries (US 259, TX-31, Loop 281) can get congested during rush hour. Living centrally (like in the Booker T. Washington area) can save you significant time on commutes to multiple employers.

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The Long Game: Career Growth

Longview is not a place for rapid, explosive career growth, but it’s excellent for steady, sustainable advancement with a lower cost of living.

• Specialty Premiums: The highest salaries are typically in Medical Social Work (hospital discharge planning, hospice) and Clinical Therapy (private practice, Andrews Center). An LCSW in a hospital setting can command $10,000-$20,000 more than a non-clinical case manager. School social workers often have a state-mandated salary schedule, which can be competitive for the area.
• Advancement Paths: The clear path is from Case Manager -> LCSW -> Clinical Supervisor or Program Director. In non-profits, moving into a management role (e.g., Director of Services) can push your salary toward the $70,000 mark. In healthcare, becoming a Manager of Social Work is the next step. With 10+ years of experience and a strong reputation, opening a private practice is a viable path to six figures, though it requires business acumen.
• 10-Year Outlook (7% Growth): The BLS projects 7% job growth for social workers in the Longview metro over 10 years. This is slightly above the national average for many professions. The demand is driven by an aging population (needing more medical and hospice social workers), ongoing mental health needs, and the stability of the healthcare and education sectors. While the growth is steady, it’s not explosive, meaning competition for the best jobs will be moderate. Building a strong local network is key to tapping into the unadvertised opportunities.

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The Verdict: Is Longview Right for You?

Longview offers a compelling package for social workers who value affordability, community, and a manageable pace of life over the high-energy, high-cost environment of a major metropolis.

Pros	Cons
High Quality of Life for the Cost: Your $58,742 salary goes much further here.	Limited Specialties: Fewer niche job opportunities (e.g., forensic social work, large-scale research).
Stable Job Market: Anchored by healthcare and education, with 168 existing jobs and 7% growth.	Car Dependency: You need a reliable vehicle; public transit is minimal.
Short Commutes: Most jobs are within a 15-20 minute drive.	Conservative Culture: East Texas is socially conservative; this can be a pro or con depending on your personal values.
Tight-Knit Professional Community: Easier to build a network and find a mentor.	Limited Arts & Nightlife: Compared to Austin or Dallas, cultural amenities are more subdued.
Path to Homeownership: Very achievable on a social worker’s salary.	Lower Ceiling for Top Salaries: While you can live well, the absolute top-end salaries are in larger cities.

Final Recommendation:
Longview is an excellent choice for early- to mid-career social workers, couples or families looking to buy a home, and anyone seeking a lower-stress environment without sacrificing professional opportunity. It’s less ideal for those who thrive on the energy of a large city, require highly specialized niche fields, or prioritize a progressive urban culture. If you value stability, affordability, and a strong sense of community, Longview is a place where you can build a fulfilling and financially comfortable career.

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FAQs

1. Can I afford to live in Longview on a starting social worker salary (~$45,000)?
Yes, but with careful budgeting. On $45,000/year (~$3,750/month gross, ~$2,800 net), your budget will be tight. You’d likely need to rent in the $800 range, limit discretionary spending, and share housing with a roommate or partner. It’s doable but requires discipline.

2. Do I need a car in Longview?
Absolutely. Longview is not a