Chicago vs Normal: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Chicago, IL and Normal, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Normal, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,728▲ | $81,502 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.14▲ | $39.18 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $32,785 | $47,271▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $56,375 | $58,682▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $135,007▲ | $104,322 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $179,056▲ | $126,328 |
| 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 Normal.
The salary gap between Chicago and Normal is $8,226 (10.09%). 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,Normal spans $79,057. 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 3.19% more than Normal ($83,936 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 Normal 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 Normal over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$81,830 (2021) → $85,390 (2025)
Normal, IL
$106,304 (2024) → $77,562 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Normal, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Chicago or Normal?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Normal?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Normal as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Chicago vs Normal?
Related Comparisons
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