Columbus vs Fairfield: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Columbus, OH and Fairfield, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Fairfield, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,672▲ | $102,293 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.73▲ | $49.18 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,570 | $60,673▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $44,701 | $76,991▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $164,019▲ | $130,935 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $168,443▲ | $158,554 |
| Total Employed | 510▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fairfield.
The salary gap between Columbus and Fairfield is $7,379 (7.21%). Columbus's median is +3.77% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $126,873,Fairfield spans $97,881. Columbus 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, Columbus ($114,877 effective) pays 1.86% more than Fairfield ($112,782 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 ($109,672/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($168,443)
- ✓Larger job market (510 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,877)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Fairfield if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Columbus grew 26.9% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 22.4% growth in Fairfield over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$82,220 (2021) → $104,370 (2025)
Fairfield, OH
$79,523 (2024) → $97,348 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Fairfield, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Columbus or Fairfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Fairfield?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Fairfield as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Columbus vs Fairfield?
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