Kansas City vs University City: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Kansas City, MO and University City, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kansas City, MO | University City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,094▲ | $101,638 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.57▲ | $48.86 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,675 | $58,950▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,808▲ | $73,555 |
| 75th Percentile | $130,215▲ | $130,096 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $161,382▲ | $157,538 |
| Total Employed | 310▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Kansas City, MO offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to University City.
The salary gap between Kansas City and University City is $1,456 (1.43%). Kansas City's median is -2.46% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kansas City spans $107,707,University City spans $98,588. Kansas City 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, University City ($113,435 effective) pays 1.83% 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 Kansas City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,094/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($161,382)
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose University City if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $113,435)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Kansas City grew 28.6% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 37.9% growth in University City over the same period.
Kansas City, MO
$76,290 (2021) → $98,110 (2025)
University City, MO
$70,128 (2024) → $96,724 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kansas City, MO
University City, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Kansas City or University City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kansas City and University City?
Should I relocate from Kansas City to University City as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Kansas City vs University 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