Memphis vs Nashville: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Memphis, TN and Nashville, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Memphis, TN | Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $75,521 | $81,027▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $36.31 | $38.95▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,466 | $59,402▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $57,973 | $68,701▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,518 | $109,882▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $115,893 | $131,854▲ |
| Total Employed | 170 | 460▲ |
Verdict
Nashville, TN offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Memphis.
The salary gap between Memphis and Nashville is $5,506 (7.29%). Nashville's median is -23.33% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Memphis spans $63,427,Nashville spans $72,452. Nashville 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, Nashville ($84,107 effective) pays 2.66% more than Memphis ($81,929 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Nashville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($81,027/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,854)
- ✓Larger job market (460 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $84,107)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Memphis grew -28.1% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -21.3% growth in Nashville over the same period.
Memphis, TN
$99,980 (2021) → $71,870 (2025)
Nashville, TN
$98,030 (2021) → $77,110 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Memphis, TN
Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Memphis or Nashville?
What is the hourly rate difference between Memphis and Nashville?
Should I relocate from Memphis to Nashville as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Memphis vs Nashville?
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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