Lincoln vs Scottsbluff: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Lincoln, NE and Scottsbluff, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lincoln, NE | Scottsbluff, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $126,096▲ | $92,806 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.62▲ | $44.62 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $64,288▲ | $53,827 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,933▲ | $72,398 |
| 75th Percentile | $143,371▲ | $118,791 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $218,566▲ | $143,848 |
| Total Employed | 150▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Lincoln, NE offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Scottsbluff.
The salary gap between Lincoln and Scottsbluff is $33,290 (35.87%). Lincoln's median is +19.31% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lincoln spans $154,278,Scottsbluff spans $90,021. Lincoln 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, Lincoln ($137,688 effective) pays 35.75% more than Scottsbluff ($101,427 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lincoln if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($126,096/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($218,566)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $137,688)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose Scottsbluff if…
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Lincoln grew 46.4% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 13.6% growth in Scottsbluff over the same period.
Lincoln, NE
$81,950 (2021) → $120,000 (2025)
Scottsbluff, NE
$77,746 (2024) → $88,319 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lincoln, NE
Scottsbluff, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Lincoln or Scottsbluff?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lincoln and Scottsbluff?
Should I relocate from Lincoln to Scottsbluff as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Lincoln vs Scottsbluff?
Related Comparisons
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