Brookfield vs Madison: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Brookfield, WI and Madison, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Brookfield, WI | Madison, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $121,647▲ | $112,940 |
| Hourly Rate | $58.49▲ | $54.29 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,555 | $84,001▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $92,327 | $98,964▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $155,708▲ | $155,004 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $188,552▲ | $179,025 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 250▲ |
Verdict
Brookfield, WI offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Madison.
The salary gap between Brookfield and Madison is $8,707 (7.71%). Brookfield's median is +15.10% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Brookfield spans $117,997,Madison spans $95,024. Brookfield 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, Brookfield ($130,243 effective) pays 12.19% more than Madison ($116,090 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Brookfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($121,647/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($188,552)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $130,243)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Brookfield grew 35.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.3% growth in Madison over the same period.
Brookfield, WI
$85,380 (2024) → $115,766 (2025)
Madison, WI
$79,430 (2021) → $107,480 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Brookfield, WI
Madison, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Brookfield or Madison?
What is the hourly rate difference between Brookfield and Madison?
Should I relocate from Brookfield to Madison as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Brookfield vs Madison?
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