Independence vs Kansas City: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Independence, MO and Kansas City, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, MO | Kansas City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,212▲ | $103,094 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.59▲ | $49.57 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,023▲ | $53,675 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,483▲ | $73,808 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,672▲ | $130,215 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $163,079▲ | $161,382 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 310▲ |
Verdict
Independence, MO offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Kansas City.
The salary gap between Independence and Kansas City is $2,118 (2.05%). Independence's median is -0.45% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $102,056,Kansas City spans $107,707. Kansas City 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, Independence ($117,424 effective) pays 5.41% more than Kansas City ($111,401 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,212/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($163,079)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,424)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Kansas City if…
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Independence grew 37.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.6% growth in Kansas City over the same period.
Independence, MO
$72,595 (2024) → $100,126 (2025)
Kansas City, MO
$76,290 (2021) → $98,110 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, MO
Kansas City, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Independence or Kansas City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Kansas City?
Should I relocate from Independence to Kansas City as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Independence vs Kansas City?
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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