Rochester vs Valley Stream: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Rochester, NY and Valley Stream, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, NY | Valley Stream, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,646 | $108,557▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.39 | $52.19▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,573 | $62,963▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,048 | $83,091▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $129,511 | $138,954▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $179,456▲ | $168,264 |
| Total Employed | 280▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Rochester and Valley Stream are closely matched on overall clinical and counseling psychologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Rochester and Valley Stream is $7,911 (7.86%). Valley Stream's median is +2.71% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $121,883,Valley Stream spans $105,301. Rochester 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, Rochester ($103,721 effective) pays 10.74% more than Valley Stream ($93,664 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($179,456)
- ✓Larger job market (280 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,721)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Valley Stream if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,557/year)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Rochester grew -8.4% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -21.6% growth in Valley Stream over the same period.
Rochester, NY
$104,580 (2021) → $95,780 (2025)
Valley Stream, NY
$131,726 (2024) → $103,309 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, NY
Valley Stream, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Rochester or Valley Stream?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rochester and Valley Stream?
Should I relocate from Rochester to Valley Stream as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Rochester vs Valley Stream?
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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