Columbus vs Fort Wayne: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Columbus, IN and Fort Wayne, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, IN | Fort Wayne, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,411▲ | $86,859 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.24▲ | $41.76 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,964▲ | $51,458 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,584▲ | $68,586 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,698 | $108,075▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,012 | $132,243▲ |
| Total Employed | 40 | 150▲ |
Verdict
Columbus and Fort Wayne are closely matched on overall clinical and counseling psychologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Fort Wayne is $15,552 (17.90%). Columbus's median is -3.10% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $51,048,Fort Wayne spans $80,785. Fort Wayne 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, Columbus ($110,116 effective) pays 17.36% more than Fort Wayne ($93,829 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,411/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,116)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Fort Wayne if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($132,243)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Columbus grew 21.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.5% growth in Fort Wayne over the same period.
Columbus, IN
$80,182 (2024) → $97,460 (2025)
Fort Wayne, IN
$60,550 (2021) → $82,660 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, IN
Fort Wayne, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Columbus or Fort Wayne?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Fort Wayne?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Fort Wayne as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Columbus vs Fort Wayne?
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