Speech-Language Pathology Assistants

SOC code 31-9099 · O*NET-SOC 31-9099.01 · Medium preparation needed · Healthcare

Speech-Language Pathology Assistants pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$48,430

a year

Hourly

$23.28

per hour

10th$34,770Median$48,43090th$71,470

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$50,810

$24.43 per hour

Middle 50%

$39,470 – $59,710

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$34,770 – $71,470

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

109,740

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

These pay and employment figures are for the broader BLS group “Healthcare Support Workers, All Other”, not this job alone.

10th percentile: $34,770; $16.71/hr
25th percentile: $39,470; $18.98/hr
Median percentile: $48,430; $23.28/hr
75th percentile: $59,710; $28.71/hr
90th percentile: $71,470; $34.36/hr

What does a speech-language pathology assistant do?

Assist speech-language pathologists in the assessment and treatment of speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. Implement speech and language programs or activities as planned and directed by speech-language pathologists. Monitor the use of alternative communication devices and systems.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Document clients' progress toward meeting established treatment objectives.
Implement treatment plans or protocols as directed by speech-language pathologists.
Collect and compile data to document clients' performance or assess program quality.
Perform support duties, such as preparing materials, keeping records, maintaining supplies, and scheduling activities.
Assist speech-language pathologists in the remediation or development of speech and language skills.
Select or prepare speech-language instructional materials.
Assist speech-language pathologists in the conduct of client screenings or assessments of language, voice, fluency, articulation, or hearing.
Prepare charts, graphs, or other visual displays to communicate clients' performance information.

How to become a speech-language pathology assistant

Most people in this role hold associate's degree or other 2-year degree — 58% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 3 — Medium preparation needed

Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

See all zone 3 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree58%
Bachelor's Degree23%
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate14%
Master's Degree5%

Common questions

How much does a speech-language pathology assistant earn?

The national median is $48,430 a year. The full range runs from $34,770 at the 10th percentile to $71,470 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a speech-language pathology assistant without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 3, meaning the typical entry route is most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Active Listening4.0/5
Reading Comprehension3.8/5
Speaking3.8/5
Monitoring3.4/5
Writing3.1/5
Critical Thinking3.1/5
Active Learning3.1/5

Knowledge areas

English Language4.5/5
Education and Training4.2/5
Therapy and Counseling3.7/5
Psychology3.6/5
Customer and Personal Service3.4/5
Administrative3.4/5
Computers and Electronics2.8/5
Sociology and Anthropology2.6/5

Transferable strengths: Social Perceptiveness, Service Orientation, Complex Problem Solving.