Entry-Level Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary in Kailua, HI: $72,495 (2026)
Quick Answer:New clinical and counseling psychologists entering the Kailua, HI job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $72,495 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 19-3033, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Kailua's local price level (BEA RPP 119.3 — 19% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $60,767 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($124,991) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For those entering the field in Kailua, HI, the starting clinical and counseling psychologist salary in 2026 projects to be around $72,495, which may feel considerable lower compared to the city's median of $124,991. This gap emphasizes the reality many new graduates face as they embark on their careers. Despite the lower entry-level figure, entry-level psychologists can look forward to a growth trajectory that could see them reaching $91,308 within a few years as they gain experience and establish their reputations. Kailua presents a supportive market for new professionals, particularly with its steady 5.08% annual growth rate, making it a potential area for financial stability and upward mobility during the initial stages of one’s career.
About the Kailua Market
Salary estimated from Hawaii average ($80,210) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Kailua
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Kailua
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists in Kailua, HI typically start between $72,495 and $91,308 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $121,240 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $124,991 — 18.26% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average psychology program cost in Hawaii of $80,000 represents just 110.35% of the starting clinical and counseling psychologist pay ($72,495/year) in Kailua. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates based on APA-accredited PsyD and PhD clinical psychology program data. PsyD programs (predominantly clinical) typically charge tuition; PhD programs (research-focused) often offer full funding plus stipend. Median time-to-degree is 5-7 years; an additional 1-2 year clinical postdoc plus state EPPP exam is required for licensure.
CCP Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Kailua
- 1Research the Kailua market: entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist pay ranges from $72,495 to $91,308, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the psychology field — employers in HI often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Kailua, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Kailua for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Factor in Kailua's above-average cost of living (index: 119.3) when evaluating offers — a slightly lower salary in a nearby affordable area may provide better purchasing power.
Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Compensation Range
The clinical and counseling psychologist wage spread in Kailua is $121,240 ( 167.24%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $72,495, experienced hygienists can earn up to $193,735.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$58,786
2025 BLS Actual
$68,990
2026 Current Est.
$72,495
2021–2027 Growth
+29.6%
Salary Trajectory for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Kailua (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.08% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $58,786 | Actual |
| 2022 | $53,471 | Actual |
| 2023 | $61,049 | Actual |
| 2024 | $55,018 | Actual |
| 2025 | $68,990 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $72,495 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $76,177 | Projected |
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist compensation (10th percentile) in Kailua, HI grew 17.4% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $58,786 in 2021 to $68,990 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $76,177. New graduates entering the Kailua job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Kailua metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 5.08% CAGR derived from 5-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Starting Your psychology Career in Kailua
When considering potential employers that are welcoming to new graduates, large hospital systems and corporate group practices in Kailua often provide structured onboarding programs that help ease the transition from academia to professional practice. For those looking to enhance their starting pay, obtaining state licensure is crucial, while pursuing additional certifications from recognized professional bodies can further enhance earning potential. In the first one to three years, new psychologists can expect to gradually increase their salaries as they build their networks and experience. It’s important to understand that compensation can vary significantly based on the type of employer, geographic market conditions, and the qualifications a psychologist possesses. Thus, being strategic about where to apply and how to grow professionally will be essential for maximizing one’s earning potential in this evolving field.
More salary data for Kailua, HI:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for clinical and counseling psychologists in Kailua in 2026?
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Is psychology school worth it in Kailua?
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How do I become a clinical and counseling psychologist in Hawaii?
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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
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new psychology graduates. A 5.08% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Kailua. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Kailua is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.08%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for clinical and counseling psychologists (SOC 19-3033).
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