Cincinnati vs Columbus: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Cincinnati, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cincinnati, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,616 | $109,672▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.77 | $52.73▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,202▲ | $41,570 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,358▲ | $44,701 |
| 75th Percentile | $143,886 | $164,019▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $175,893▲ | $168,443 |
| Total Employed | 650▲ | 510 |
Verdict
Cincinnati and Columbus are closely matched on overall clinical and counseling psychologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Cincinnati and Columbus is $4,056 (3.84%). Columbus's median is +3.77% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cincinnati spans $122,691,Columbus spans $126,873. Columbus 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, Columbus ($114,877 effective) pays 3.73% more than Cincinnati ($110,743 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cincinnati if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($175,893)
- ✓Larger job market (650 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,672/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,877)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Cincinnati grew 27.2% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Cincinnati, OH
$78,990 (2021) → $100,510 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$82,220 (2021) → $104,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cincinnati, OH
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Cincinnati or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cincinnati and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Cincinnati to Columbus as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Cincinnati vs Columbus?
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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