Appleton vs Mequon: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Appleton, WI and Mequon, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Appleton, WI | Mequon, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $123,732▲ | $115,633 |
| Hourly Rate | $59.49▲ | $55.60 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,167▲ | $71,199 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,474 | $88,992▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $148,625▲ | $147,939 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $216,055▲ | $179,232 |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Appleton, WI offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Mequon.
The salary gap between Appleton and Mequon is $8,099 (7.00%). Appleton's median is +17.07% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Appleton spans $136,888,Mequon spans $108,033. Appleton 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, Appleton ($133,882 effective) pays 8.14% more than Mequon ($123,804 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Appleton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($123,732/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($216,055)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $133,882)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Mequon if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Appleton grew 51.9% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 35.6% growth in Mequon over the same period.
Appleton, WI
$77,500 (2021) → $117,750 (2025)
Mequon, WI
$81,159 (2024) → $110,043 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Appleton, WI
Mequon, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Appleton or Mequon?
What is the hourly rate difference between Appleton and Mequon?
Should I relocate from Appleton to Mequon as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Appleton vs Mequon?
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