Columbus vs Lima: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Columbus, OH and Lima, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Lima, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,672▲ | $104,772 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.73▲ | $50.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,570 | $63,138▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $44,701 | $79,592▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $164,019▲ | $134,108 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $168,443▲ | $162,397 |
| Total Employed | 510▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lima.
The salary gap between Columbus and Lima is $4,900 (4.68%). 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 Columbus spans $126,873,Lima spans $99,259. Columbus 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, Lima ($115,515 effective) pays 0.56% more than Columbus ($114,877 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,672/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($168,443)
- ✓Larger job market (510 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Lima if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $115,515)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Columbus grew 26.9% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 22.4% growth in Lima over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$82,220 (2021) → $104,370 (2025)
Lima, OH
$81,450 (2024) → $99,707 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Columbus or Lima?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Lima?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Lima as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Columbus vs Lima?
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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