Jackson vs Memphis: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Jackson, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jackson, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $77,178▲ | $75,521 |
| Hourly Rate | $37.10▲ | $36.31 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,763 | $52,466▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $55,568 | $57,973▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $98,788 | $101,518▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $119,626▲ | $115,893 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Jackson, TN offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Memphis.
The salary gap between Jackson and Memphis is $1,657 (2.19%). Jackson's median is -26.98% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jackson spans $74,863,Memphis spans $63,427. Jackson 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, Jackson ($84,072 effective) pays 2.62% more than Memphis ($81,929 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($77,178/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($119,626)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $84,072)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Jackson grew -22.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -28.1% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Jackson, TN
$94,830 (2024) → $73,447 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$99,980 (2021) → $71,870 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jackson, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Jackson or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jackson and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Jackson to Memphis as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Jackson vs Memphis?
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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