Colorado Springs vs Golden: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Colorado Springs, CO and Golden, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Colorado Springs, CO | Golden, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $128,019▲ | $102,142 |
| Hourly Rate | $61.55▲ | $49.10 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,188▲ | $60,611 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,159▲ | $76,708 |
| 75th Percentile | $150,517▲ | $130,742 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $173,582▲ | $158,320 |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Colorado Springs, CO offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Golden.
The salary gap between Colorado Springs and Golden is $25,877 (25.33%). Colorado Springs's median is +21.13% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Colorado Springs spans $94,394,Golden spans $97,709. Golden 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, Colorado Springs ($127,120 effective) pays 30.68% more than Golden ($97,278 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Colorado Springs if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($128,019/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($173,582)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $127,120)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Golden if…
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Colorado Springs grew 48.7% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -20.3% growth in Golden over the same period.
Colorado Springs, CO
$81,940 (2021) → $121,830 (2025)
Golden, CO
$122,022 (2024) → $97,204 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Colorado Springs, CO
Golden, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Colorado Springs or Golden?
What is the hourly rate difference between Colorado Springs and Golden?
Should I relocate from Colorado Springs to Golden as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Colorado Springs vs Golden?
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