Augusta vs Valdosta: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Augusta, GA and Valdosta, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Augusta, GA | Valdosta, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $71,391 | $97,113▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $34.33 | $46.69▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $55,335 | $57,028▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $64,130 | $72,779▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,753 | $124,304▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $183,491▲ | $150,525 |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Augusta and Valdosta are closely matched on overall clinical and counseling psychologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Augusta and Valdosta is $25,722 (36.03%). Valdosta's median is -8.11% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Augusta spans $128,156,Valdosta spans $93,497. Augusta has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Valdosta ($104,310 effective) pays 34.28% more than Augusta ($77,681 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($183,491)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Valdosta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($97,113/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,310)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Augusta grew -11.0% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -13.5% growth in Valdosta over the same period.
Augusta, GA
$76,360 (2021) → $67,940 (2025)
Valdosta, GA
$106,807 (2024) → $92,418 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Augusta, GA
Valdosta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Augusta or Valdosta?
What is the hourly rate difference between Augusta and Valdosta?
Should I relocate from Augusta to Valdosta as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Augusta vs Valdosta?
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Written by Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in clinical psychology. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy. Maria works at a mental health clinic in Chicago.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.08% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC, a licensed clinical and counseling psychologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov