Houston vs University Park: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Houston, TX and University Park, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Houston, TX | University Park, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,178▲ | $77,045 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.61▲ | $37.04 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $58,992▲ | $44,686 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,246▲ | $55,831 |
| 75th Percentile | $111,490▲ | $98,618 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $144,306▲ | $119,419 |
| Total Employed | 560▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Houston, TX offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to University Park.
The salary gap between Houston and University Park is $26,133 (33.92%). Houston's median is -2.38% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Houston spans $85,314,University Park spans $74,733. Houston 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, Houston ($104,612 effective) pays 30.35% more than University Park ($80,255 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Houston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,178/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($144,306)
- ✓Larger job market (560 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,612)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose University Park if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Houston grew 24.3% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 6.3% growth in University Park over the same period.
Houston, TX
$78,990 (2021) → $98,190 (2025)
University Park, TX
$68,977 (2024) → $73,320 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Houston, TX
University Park, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Houston or University Park?
What is the hourly rate difference between Houston and University Park?
Should I relocate from Houston to University Park as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Houston vs University Park?
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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