New York vs Albany: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between New York, NY and Albany, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York, NY | Albany, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $126,632▲ | $111,847 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.88▲ | $53.78 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,039▲ | $61,903 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,414▲ | $78,842 |
| 75th Percentile | $146,450▲ | $136,993 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $218,566▲ | $166,047 |
| Total Employed | 8,170▲ | 330 |
Verdict
New York, NY offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Albany.
The salary gap between New York and Albany is $14,785 (13.22%). New York's median is +19.82% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New York spans $150,527,Albany spans $104,144. New York 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, New York ($112,499 effective) pays 0.15% more than Albany ($112,335 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New York if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($126,632/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($218,566)
- ✓Larger job market (8,170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,499)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Albany if…
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in New York grew 14.8% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 3.2% growth in Albany over the same period.
New York, NY
$104,940 (2021) → $120,510 (2025)
Albany, NY
$103,170 (2021) → $106,440 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New York, NY
Albany, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: New York or Albany?
What is the hourly rate difference between New York and Albany?
Should I relocate from New York to Albany as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in New York vs Albany?
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