Gilbert vs Phoenix: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Gilbert, AZ and Phoenix, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gilbert, AZ | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,742 | $121,441▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $51.32 | $58.38▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,911 | $65,034▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,893 | $82,751▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $136,630 | $146,996▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $165,451 | $170,030▲ |
| Total Employed | 49 | 500▲ |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Gilbert.
The salary gap between Gilbert and Phoenix is $14,699 (13.77%). Phoenix's median is +14.90% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gilbert spans $103,540,Phoenix spans $104,996. Phoenix 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, Phoenix ($117,543 effective) pays 8.47% more than Gilbert ($108,368 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gilbert if…
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($121,441/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($170,030)
- ✓Larger job market (500 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,543)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Gilbert grew -6.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 47.3% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Gilbert, AZ
$108,036 (2024) → $101,582 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$78,480 (2021) → $115,570 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gilbert, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Gilbert or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gilbert and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Gilbert to Phoenix as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Gilbert vs Phoenix?
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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