Chicago vs Gurnee: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Chicago, IL and Gurnee, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Gurnee, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,728▲ | $82,843 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.14▲ | $39.83 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $32,785 | $48,049▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $56,375 | $59,912▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $135,007▲ | $106,039 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $179,056▲ | $128,407 |
| Total Employed | 5,030▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Gurnee.
The salary gap between Chicago and Gurnee is $6,885 (8.31%). Chicago'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 Chicago spans $146,271,Gurnee spans $80,358. Chicago 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, Chicago ($86,614 effective) pays 1.52% more than Gurnee ($85,317 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,728/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($179,056)
- ✓Larger job market (5,030 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $86,614)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Gurnee if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Chicago grew 4.4% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -27.0% growth in Gurnee over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$81,830 (2021) → $85,390 (2025)
Gurnee, IL
$108,053 (2024) → $78,838 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Gurnee, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Chicago or Gurnee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Gurnee?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Gurnee as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Chicago vs Gurnee?
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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