Idaho Falls vs Meridian: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Idaho Falls, ID and Meridian, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Idaho Falls, ID | Meridian, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,913▲ | $101,099 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.00▲ | $48.61 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $59,110▲ | $58,637 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,377 | $74,645▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $130,448▲ | $129,406 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $157,965▲ | $156,703 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 30▲ |
Verdict
Idaho Falls, ID offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Meridian.
The salary gap between Idaho Falls and Meridian is $814 (0.81%). Idaho Falls's median is -3.57% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Idaho Falls spans $98,855,Meridian spans $98,066. Idaho Falls 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, Idaho Falls ($106,939 effective) pays 0.81% more than Meridian ($106,085 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Idaho Falls if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,913/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($157,965)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,939)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Meridian if…
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Idaho Falls grew 42.0% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 21.5% growth in Meridian over the same period.
Idaho Falls, ID
$68,320 (2021) → $96,986 (2025)
Meridian, ID
$79,194 (2024) → $96,211 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Idaho Falls, ID
Meridian, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Idaho Falls or Meridian?
What is the hourly rate difference between Idaho Falls and Meridian?
Should I relocate from Idaho Falls to Meridian as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Idaho Falls vs Meridian?
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