Erie vs Pittsburgh: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Erie, PA and Pittsburgh, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Erie, PA | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,782▲ | $97,210 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.45▲ | $46.74 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,360 | $66,610▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,626 | $82,004▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $170,030▲ | $138,033 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $173,666▲ | $138,033 |
| Total Employed | 50 | 450▲ |
Verdict
Erie, PA offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Pittsburgh.
The salary gap between Erie and Pittsburgh is $3,572 (3.67%). Erie's median is -4.64% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Erie spans $108,306,Pittsburgh spans $71,423. Erie 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, Erie ($110,810 effective) pays 7.92% more than Pittsburgh ($102,682 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Erie if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,782/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($173,666)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,810)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Pittsburgh if…
- ✓Larger job market (450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Erie grew 21.4% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 32.3% growth in Pittsburgh over the same period.
Erie, PA
$78,990 (2021) → $95,910 (2025)
Pittsburgh, PA
$69,930 (2021) → $92,510 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pittsburgh, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Erie or Pittsburgh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Erie and Pittsburgh?
Should I relocate from Erie to Pittsburgh as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Erie vs Pittsburgh?
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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