Austin vs Friendswood: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Austin, TX and Friendswood, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Friendswood, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $92,397▲ | $78,607 |
| Hourly Rate | $44.42▲ | $37.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $58,666▲ | $47,205 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,405▲ | $59,777 |
| 75th Percentile | $115,399▲ | $100,617 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,995▲ | $121,841 |
| Total Employed | 230▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Friendswood.
The salary gap between Austin and Friendswood is $13,790 (17.54%). Austin's median is -12.58% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $77,329,Friendswood spans $74,636. Austin 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, Austin ($94,219 effective) pays 15.07% more than Friendswood ($81,882 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($92,397/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,995)
- ✓Larger job market (230 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $94,219)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Friendswood if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Austin grew 6.9% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 6.3% growth in Friendswood over the same period.
Austin, TX
$82,220 (2021) → $87,930 (2025)
Friendswood, TX
$70,376 (2024) → $74,807 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Friendswood, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Austin or Friendswood?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Friendswood?
Should I relocate from Austin to Friendswood as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Austin vs Friendswood?
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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