Entry-Level Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary in Manhattan, KS: $56,032 (2026)
Quick Answer:New clinical and counseling psychologists entering the Manhattan, KS job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $56,032 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 19-3033, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Manhattan's local price level (BEA RPP 90.9 — 9% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $61,641 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($96,606) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates entering the field of clinical and counseling psychology in Manhattan, Kansas, the starting salary can be quite variable, with entry-level positions typically offering around $56,032 annually. While this is significantly lower than the median salary of $96,606 in the city, it is important to understand the growth potential that exists within the profession. Over the first three to five years, early-career psychologists can expect to see their salaries rise as they gain experience, with possibilities of reaching $69,557 at the 25th percentile and moving toward the city median. Given the projected growth rate of 5.08% annually for this role, graduates can find Manhattan to be a promising market to begin their careers despite the initial pay gap.
About the Manhattan Market
Salary estimated from Kansas average ($84,570) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Manhattan
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 Manhattan
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists in Manhattan, KS typically start between $56,032 and $69,557 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $93,708 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $96,606 — 8.59% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average psychology program cost in Kansas of $50,000 represents just 89.23% of the starting clinical and counseling psychologist pay ($56,032/year) in Manhattan. 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 Manhattan
- 1Research the Manhattan market: entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist pay ranges from $56,032 to $69,557, 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 KS often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Manhattan, 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 Manhattan for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Manhattan's below-average cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Compensation Range
The clinical and counseling psychologist wage spread in Manhattan is $93,708 ( 167.24%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $56,032, experienced hygienists can earn up to $149,740.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$45,436
2025 BLS Actual
$53,323
2026 Current Est.
$56,032
2021–2027 Growth
+29.6%
Salary Trajectory for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Manhattan (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.08% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $45,436 | Actual |
| 2022 | $41,328 | Actual |
| 2023 | $47,186 | Actual |
| 2024 | $44,835 | Actual |
| 2025 | $53,323 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $56,032 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $58,878 | Projected |
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist compensation (10th percentile) in Manhattan, KS grew 17.4% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $45,436 in 2021 to $53,323 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $58,878. New graduates entering the Manhattan job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Manhattan 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 Manhattan
In terms of employment opportunities, larger healthcare facilities and corporate group practices in Manhattan are known to actively hire new graduates. These employers often provide structured onboarding programs that can ease the transition from academic training to professional practice. To enhance starting pay and career prospects, obtaining state licensure is essential, and pursuing optional advanced certifications from recognized national organizations can further boost earning potential. During the first one to three years in the field, entry-level professionals may experience salary increases as they build their credentials and gain practical experience, a key factor since compensation varies notably based on employer type and the geographical market in Kansas. As these new professionals strategically develop their careers, they should anticipate realistic salary enhancements as they establish themselves in the field.
More salary data for Manhattan, KS:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for clinical and counseling psychologists in Manhattan in 2026?
How fast do clinical and counseling psychologist salaries grow in Manhattan?
Is psychology school worth it in Manhattan?
What do new clinical and counseling psychologists make right out of school in Manhattan?
How do I become a clinical and counseling psychologist in Kansas?
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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 Manhattan. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Manhattan 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