Before a priest is assigned to a parish, a representative of the diocese visits the parish to set salary and benefits (if salary and benefits are not previously established by the diocese or jurisdiction).
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America publishes annual compensation and benefits guidelines for its parishes. Suggested salary ranges for priests in 2023 were:
- Up to 5 years of experience: $60,528–$81,960
- 6–10 years: $81,960–$91,296
- 11–15 years: $91,296–$104,640
- 16–20 years: $104,640–$116,160
- 21–25 years: $116,160–$124,488
- 26–30 years: $124,488–$132,504
- 31–35 years: $132,504–$140,160
- Over 35 years: $140,160–$147,960
The archdiocese also encourages parishes to provide priests with a vehicle, reimbursement for health insurance under the archdiocese-sponsored Orthodox Health Plan, a minimum vacation of two weeks a year, reimbursement for costs incurred during attendance at continuing education classes and religious retreats, and a three-month sabbatical leave for every six years of service with the parish. Not all parishes adhere to these guidelines, but many do. In some dioceses, clergy also receive free housing or a housing allowance, free utilities or a utility allowance, and the opportunity to participate in their church’s pension plan (if offered by the jurisdiction or diocese).
Priests in some Orthodox traditions are not paid as well and receive fewer benefits. In fact, some priests (especially those in newly established, fledgling mission communities) have to take second jobs in order to support themselves because their pay is so low. In these settings, salaries may range from $30,000 to $65,000.