Carlsbad vs Las Cruces: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Carlsbad, NM and Las Cruces, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carlsbad, NM | Las Cruces, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $94,598 | $103,078▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $45.48 | $49.56▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $54,868 | $59,785▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $69,742 | $74,216▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $121,086 | $131,941▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $146,628 | $159,771▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 28▲ |
Verdict
Las Cruces, NM offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Carlsbad.
The salary gap between Carlsbad and Las Cruces is $8,480 (8.96%). Las Cruces's median is -2.47% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Carlsbad spans $91,760,Las Cruces spans $99,986. Las Cruces has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced clinical and counseling psychologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Las Cruces ($109,193 effective) pays 8.96% more than Carlsbad ($100,210 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carlsbad if…
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose Las Cruces if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,078/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($159,771)
- ✓Larger job market (28 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,193)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Carlsbad grew 24.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 0.5% growth in Las Cruces over the same period.
Carlsbad, NM
$72,124 (2024) → $90,025 (2025)
Las Cruces, NM
$97,580 (2021) → $98,095 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carlsbad, NM
Las Cruces, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Carlsbad or Las Cruces?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carlsbad and Las Cruces?
Should I relocate from Carlsbad to Las Cruces as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Carlsbad vs Las Cruces?
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