Central Point vs Portland: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Central Point, OR and Portland, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Central Point, OR | Portland, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,791 | $128,334▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.42 | $61.70▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $59,619 | $98,355▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $74,560 | $103,178▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $131,573 | $141,585▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $159,326 | $167,067▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 330▲ |
Verdict
Portland, OR offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Central Point.
The salary gap between Central Point and Portland is $25,543 (24.85%). Portland's median is +21.43% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Central Point spans $99,707,Portland spans $68,712. Central Point 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, Portland ($121,735 effective) pays 21.51% more than Central Point ($100,186 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Central Point if…
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Portland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($128,334/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($167,067)
- ✓Larger job market (330 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $121,735)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Central Point grew -22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 2.5% growth in Portland over the same period.
Central Point, OR
$126,046 (2024) → $97,822 (2025)
Portland, OR
$119,180 (2021) → $122,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Central Point, OR
Portland, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Central Point or Portland?
What is the hourly rate difference between Central Point and Portland?
Should I relocate from Central Point to Portland as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Central Point vs Portland?
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