Dallas vs McAllen: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Dallas, TX and McAllen, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dallas, TX | McAllen, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $111,889▲ | $78,537 |
| Hourly Rate | $53.79▲ | $37.76 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,037▲ | $52,572 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,265▲ | $69,721 |
| 75th Percentile | $118,751▲ | $95,959 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $151,294▲ | $108,674 |
| Total Employed | 950▲ | 50 |
Verdict
Dallas, TX offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to McAllen.
The salary gap between Dallas and McAllen is $33,352 (42.47%). Dallas's median is +5.87% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dallas spans $88,257,McAllen spans $56,102. Dallas 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, Dallas ($108,535 effective) pays 18.70% more than McAllen ($91,434 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dallas if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($111,889/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($151,294)
- ✓Larger job market (950 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,535)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose McAllen 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 Dallas grew 36.4% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 16.3% growth in McAllen over the same period.
Dallas, TX
$78,040 (2021) → $106,480 (2025)
McAllen, TX
$64,290 (2021) → $74,740 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dallas, TX
McAllen, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Dallas or McAllen?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dallas and McAllen?
Should I relocate from Dallas to McAllen as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Dallas vs McAllen?
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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