Phoenix vs Sierra Vista: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Sierra Vista, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Sierra Vista, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $121,441▲ | $99,595 |
| Hourly Rate | $58.38▲ | $47.88 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,034▲ | $58,126 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,751▲ | $74,493 |
| 75th Percentile | $146,996▲ | $127,481 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $170,030▲ | $154,372 |
| Total Employed | 500▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sierra Vista.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Sierra Vista is $21,846 (21.93%). Phoenix's median is +14.90% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $104,996,Sierra Vista spans $96,246. Phoenix 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, Phoenix ($117,543 effective) pays 16.25% more than Sierra Vista ($101,112 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($121,441/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($170,030)
- ✓Larger job market (500 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,543)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Sierra Vista if…
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Phoenix grew 47.3% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -6.0% growth in Sierra Vista over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$78,480 (2021) → $115,570 (2025)
Sierra Vista, AZ
$100,802 (2024) → $94,780 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Sierra Vista, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Phoenix or Sierra Vista?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Sierra Vista?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Sierra Vista as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Phoenix vs Sierra Vista?
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