Gallup vs Rio Rancho: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Gallup, NM and Rio Rancho, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gallup, NM | Rio Rancho, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $92,760 | $102,692▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.60 | $49.37▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $56,712 | $59,561▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $70,802 | $73,937▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $118,733 | $131,446▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $143,779 | $159,172▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Rio Rancho, NM offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Gallup.
The salary gap between Gallup and Rio Rancho is $9,932 (10.71%). Rio Rancho's median is -2.84% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gallup spans $87,067,Rio Rancho spans $99,611. Rio Rancho 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, Rio Rancho ($108,784 effective) pays 10.71% more than Gallup ($98,263 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gallup if…
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose Rio Rancho if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,692/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($159,172)
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,784)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Gallup grew 24.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 24.8% growth in Rio Rancho over the same period.
Gallup, NM
$70,723 (2024) → $88,276 (2025)
Rio Rancho, NM
$78,294 (2024) → $97,727 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gallup, NM
Rio Rancho, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Gallup or Rio Rancho?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gallup and Rio Rancho?
Should I relocate from Gallup to Rio Rancho as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Gallup vs Rio Rancho?
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