Atlanta vs Johns Creek: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Atlanta, GA and Johns Creek, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Johns Creek, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,022▲ | $96,178 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.05▲ | $46.24 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $20,322 | $55,783▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $56,218 | $70,970▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $167,655▲ | $123,108 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $216,538▲ | $149,075 |
| Total Employed | 770▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Atlanta, GA offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Johns Creek.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Johns Creek is $5,844 (6.08%). Atlanta's median is -3.47% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlanta spans $196,216,Johns Creek spans $93,292. Atlanta 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, Johns Creek ($103,306 effective) pays 1.32% more than Atlanta ($101,963 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,022/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($216,538)
- ✓Larger job market (770 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Johns Creek if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,306)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Atlanta grew 55.4% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -13.5% growth in Johns Creek over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$62,460 (2021) → $97,090 (2025)
Johns Creek, GA
$105,779 (2024) → $91,528 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Johns Creek, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Atlanta or Johns Creek?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlanta and Johns Creek?
Should I relocate from Atlanta to Johns Creek as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Atlanta vs Johns Creek?
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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