Groton vs Waterbury: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Groton, CT and Waterbury, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Groton, CT | Waterbury, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $110,543▲ | $105,731 |
| Hourly Rate | $53.15▲ | $50.83 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $64,115 | $66,348▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,439 | $100,351▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $141,495▲ | $128,712 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $171,341▲ | $150,611 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Groton, CT offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterbury.
The salary gap between Groton and Waterbury is $4,812 (4.55%). Groton's median is +4.59% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Groton spans $107,226,Waterbury spans $84,263. Groton 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, Waterbury ($105,966 effective) pays 3.43% more than Groton ($102,449 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Groton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($110,543/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($171,341)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Waterbury if…
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,966)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Groton grew -5.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -19.2% growth in Waterbury over the same period.
Groton, CT
$111,756 (2024) → $105,199 (2025)
Waterbury, CT
$124,600 (2023) → $100,620 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Groton, CT
Waterbury, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Groton or Waterbury?
What is the hourly rate difference between Groton and Waterbury?
Should I relocate from Groton to Waterbury as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Groton vs Waterbury?
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