Grand Rapids vs Portage: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Portage, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Portage, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,343▲ | $89,298 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.76▲ | $42.94 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,379▲ | $51,793 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,180▲ | $65,565 |
| 75th Percentile | $118,173▲ | $114,302 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,522 | $138,412▲ |
| Total Employed | 340▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Portage.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Portage is $10,045 (11.25%). Grand Rapids's median is -6.00% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Grand Rapids spans $69,143,Portage spans $86,619. Portage 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, Grand Rapids ($103,974 effective) pays 8.52% more than Portage ($95,813 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,343/year)
- ✓Larger job market (340 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,974)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Portage if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,412)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Grand Rapids grew 47.1% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 8.2% growth in Portage over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$64,280 (2021) → $94,540 (2025)
Portage, MI
$78,527 (2024) → $84,981 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Portage, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Grand Rapids or Portage?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Portage?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Portage as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Grand Rapids vs Portage?
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