Los Angeles vs South Gate: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Los Angeles, CA and South Gate, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Angeles, CA | South Gate, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,292 | $120,713▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.14 | $58.04▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,461 | $70,022▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,043 | $87,545▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $150,086 | $154,513▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $190,153▲ | $187,104 |
| Total Employed | 4,790▲ | 25 |
Verdict
Los Angeles and South Gate are closely matched on overall clinical and counseling psychologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Los Angeles and South Gate is $16,421 (15.75%). South Gate's median is +14.22% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Los Angeles spans $122,692,South Gate spans $117,082. Los Angeles 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, South Gate ($106,731 effective) pays 16.22% more than Los Angeles ($91,834 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($190,153)
- ✓Larger job market (4,790 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose South Gate if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($120,713/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,731)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Los Angeles grew -21.1% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -10.0% growth in South Gate over the same period.
Los Angeles, CA
$125,860 (2021) → $99,250 (2025)
South Gate, CA
$127,586 (2024) → $114,877 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
South Gate, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Los Angeles or South Gate?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Angeles and South Gate?
Should I relocate from Los Angeles to South Gate as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Los Angeles vs South Gate?
Related Comparisons
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