A Realistic Look at Income & Opportunity
You want to do work that matters. But let’s be honest—you also want to earn a living doing it.
The good news?
As a certified life coach, you can do both.
Coaching is one of the few career paths that allows you to make a deep personal impact and create a flexible, sustainable income—whether you want to coach part-time, full-time, or build an online business.
But what does that look like in real life? Let’s take a closer look at the numbers, the variables, and what’s possible with the right training and support.
What the Data Says About Coaching Income
According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF), certified coaches in North America earn a median annual income of $62,500 from coaching alone—with many earning much more depending on their niche, business model, and experience.
Top earners (especially in executive or leadership coaching) can command $200–$500+ per session, while new coaches often start in the $75–$150 range.
Other reports, like those from BetterUp and industry platforms like Noom and Coach.me, show that demand for certified coaches continues to grow—especially for coaches who bring both ICF credentials and a clear specialty to the table.
Factors That Influence Potential Coaching Earnings
Like any service-based business, coaching income depends on several key factors:
- Niche & Specialization – Coaches who focus on a clear audience (e.g., executives, mid-career women, mindset, health) often attract higher-paying clients.
- Experience & Credentials – ICF certification builds trust, credibility, and your ability to raise your rates over time.
- Business Model – Your pricing, packaging, and whether you offer 1:1, group, or online services will impact your income.
- Marketing & Visibility – Coaches who know how to market themselves consistently tend to attract more clients.
- Time Commitment – Like anything, what you put in affects what you get out.
Some coaches earn a steady side income while working in HR, education, or healthcare.
Others build six-figure practices coaching full-time. The flexibility is the beauty—and the challenge.
Coaching Full-Time vs. Part-Time
Not everyone who trains to be a coach wants to go full-time right away—and that’s okay.
Many new coaches start part-time, offering 3–5 sessions a week while maintaining another role.
It’s a great way to build confidence, gain experience, and create income while exploring your long-term vision.
Others take the leap into full-time coaching after completing their certification and logging practice hours.
They may offer:
- 10–20 sessions a week
- supplement income with group programs or speaking gigs
- grow their visibility through content and networking
Whichever route you choose, coaching can grow with you—and evolve with your life.
Creating Packages, Pricing, and Value
One of the biggest shifts new coaches make is learning how to package their services in a way that reflects the value of coaching—not just the time spent in a session.
For example:
Instead of charging per hour, coaches often offer packages (e.g., 6 sessions over 3 months) that focus on outcomes and transformation.
Coaches may also offer VIP intensives, group coaching, workshops, or online programs to scale their time and income.
Pricing varies, but many certified coaches charge $100–$250 per session early on—and increase rates with experience.
A key mindset shift?
You’re not charging for your time.
You’re charging for your expertise, support, and the results you help clients create.
Why Business Strategy Training Is Essential
(and why it’s built into the CPEC program)
Here’s something most coaching programs don’t tell you: being a great coach is only part of the equation.
To build a sustainable coaching practice, you also need business strategy—especially if you want to:
- Attract aligned clients
- Communicate your value clearly
- Set up pricing, contracts, and scheduling systems
- Market ethically and confidently
- Stay focused and profitable
You’ll learn not just how to coach—but how to earn a living doing it.
Want to Build a Sustainable Coaching Business?
If you’re ready to turn your passion into purpose and income, a strong foundation is key.
The CPEC program is ICF-accredited, neuroscience-informed, and built for real-world results.
Whether you want to coach part-time, full-time, or build your own coaching brand, you’ll get the skills, confidence, and support to do it well.
🎓 Explore Oregon State and Empower's Certified Life Coach Program.
We’ve also put together a free guide to help you explore your options and take the next step.
🎁 Get the Life Coaching Career Starter Pack Below!
FREE KIT DOWNLOAD 
The Life Coaching Career Starter Pack
Includes:
* How to Become a Certified Life Coach
* Checklist — 7 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Certification Program
* 5 Career Paths for Certified Coaches
