Arkansas Speech-Language Pathologist Salary Guide - 2024

Speech Pathologist Programs

by Speech Pathologist Programs Staff

Updated: February 28th, 2024

By aiding patients with speech and communication impairments, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) perform a crucial role in the medical community. Stuttering, speech impediments, voice problems, and aphasia are just a few of the communication and swallowing issues that these specialists evaluate, diagnose, and treat. The pay of SLPs have increased in line with the steady growth in demand for them in Arkansas.

The average annual wage for SLPs in Arkansas, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), is about $79,240 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2022). However, depending on criteria including geography, education, experience, and the type of company, earnings can vary significantly. For instance, SLPs who work in schools often make less money than those who work in clinics or hospitals. Conversely, SLPs with advanced degrees and a large amount of experience can anticipate to make significantly more money.

Schools and healthcare facilities are the biggest employers of SLPs in Arkansas, while private practices only employ a small portion of SLPs. The population of the state is diverse, thus SLPs must be able to work with people from various ethnic backgrounds and with a variety of speech and communication impairments. SLPs may benefit greatly from this diversity in terms of expanding their knowledge and experience.

SLPs in Arkansas can anticipate receiving a full benefits package, which includes health insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities, in addition to a competitive pay. The state also gives SLPs the chance to progress in their careers and take on field leadership positions.

Arkansas Speech-Language Pathologist Salaries – Visualized

Speech-Language Pathologist Salary by Industry in Arkansas

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in urban areas of Arkansas

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO320$73,450
Fort Smith, AR-OK120$75,650
Hot Springs, AR40$80,860
Jonesboro, AR90$80,580
Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR550$79,060
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in rural areas of Arkansas

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
North Arkansas nonmetropolitan area160$84,570
East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area80$64,190
West Arkansas nonmetropolitan area80$62,600
South Arkansas nonmetropolitan area80$70,750
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

What is it Like to Work as an SLP in Arkansas?

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are crucial in assisting people with communication and speech impairments, therefore working as one in Arkansas may be a gratifying and fulfilling job. However, depending on the city in which an SLP is headquartered, the working environment can differ significantly. In this article, we’ll talk about what it was like to work as an SLP in Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Jonesboro, all of which are in the state of Arkansas.

Little Rock, the biggest city in Arkansas, is also the location of numerous medical facilities, educational institutions, and private clinics. SLPs working in Little Rock can anticipate a dynamic workplace with a wide variety of communication and speech impairments to manage. Additionally, the city gives SLPs the chance to work with other medical specialists and assume field leadership positions.

The university town of Fayetteville, which is situated in the state’s northwest region, serves as a center for learning and innovation. SLPs in Fayetteville can expect a friendly and exciting work environment in addition to the chance to work in educational institutions, healthcare settings, and private offices. SLPs can interact with the academic community and take advantage of ongoing professional development opportunities in the city.

In the northeastern part of the state, Jonesboro is a little city with a tight-knit neighborhood. SLPs working in Jonesboro should anticipate a more personal work setting that emphasizes forging close bonds with patients and their families. The city provides SLPs with a supportive and cooperative work atmosphere as well as the opportunity to work in a number of settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, and private offices.

In conclusion, depending on the city in which one is stationed, the experience of working as an SLP in Arkansas can vary substantially. SLPs in Arkansas have the option to select the work environment that best suits their professional objectives and personal preferences, from the dynamic and diverse environment of Little Rock to the encouraging and creative community of Fayetteville to the close-knit and cozy atmosphere of Jonesboro.