Bristol vs Providence: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Bristol, RI and Providence, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bristol, RI | Providence, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,552 | $114,474▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.35 | $55.04▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $58,320▲ | $57,269 |
| 25th Percentile | $72,767 | $84,232▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $128,167 | $135,059▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $155,856 | $172,384▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 560▲ |
Verdict
Providence, RI offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bristol.
The salary gap between Bristol and Providence is $13,922 (13.85%). Providence's median is +8.31% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bristol spans $97,536,Providence spans $115,115. Providence has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced clinical and counseling psychologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Providence ($112,480 effective) pays 12.42% more than Bristol ($100,052 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bristol if…
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Providence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($114,474/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($172,384)
- ✓Larger job market (560 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,480)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Bristol grew -0.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.0% growth in Providence over the same period.
Bristol, RI
$96,185 (2024) → $95,691 (2025)
Providence, RI
$80,720 (2021) → $108,940 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bristol, RI
Providence, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Bristol or Providence?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bristol and Providence?
Should I relocate from Bristol to Providence as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Bristol vs Providence?
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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