Portsmouth vs Richmond: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Portsmouth, VA and Richmond, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Portsmouth, VA | Richmond, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,584▲ | $76,582 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.07▲ | $36.82 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $51,959▲ | $40,204 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,038▲ | $59,139 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,667▲ | $110,597 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,855 | $168,864▲ |
| Total Employed | 17 | 290▲ |
Verdict
Portsmouth and Richmond are closely matched on overall clinical and counseling psychologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Portsmouth and Richmond is $13,002 (16.98%). Portsmouth's median is -15.24% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Portsmouth spans $86,896,Richmond spans $128,660. Richmond has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced clinical and counseling psychologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Portsmouth ($86,806 effective) pays 10.92% more than Richmond ($78,258 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Portsmouth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,584/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $86,806)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($168,864)
- ✓Larger job market (290 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Portsmouth grew -11.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -9.2% growth in Richmond over the same period.
Portsmouth, VA
$96,783 (2024) → $85,253 (2025)
Richmond, VA
$80,230 (2021) → $72,880 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Portsmouth, VA
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Portsmouth or Richmond?
What is the hourly rate difference between Portsmouth and Richmond?
Should I relocate from Portsmouth to Richmond as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Portsmouth vs Richmond?
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