San Francisco vs Stockton: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between San Francisco, CA and Stockton, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Francisco, CA | Stockton, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $174,853▲ | $136,457 |
| Hourly Rate | $84.06▲ | $65.60 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,397▲ | $70,446 |
| 25th Percentile | $117,826▲ | $87,427 |
| 75th Percentile | $192,202▲ | $170,860 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $211,452▲ | $194,913 |
| Total Employed | 1,540▲ | 160 |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Stockton.
The salary gap between San Francisco and Stockton is $38,396 (28.14%). San Francisco's median is +65.44% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Francisco spans $125,055,Stockton spans $124,467. San Francisco 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, San Francisco ($151,240 effective) pays 16.47% more than Stockton ($129,849 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($174,853/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($211,452)
- ✓Larger job market (1,540 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $151,240)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Stockton if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in San Francisco grew 28.0% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 1.3% growth in Stockton over the same period.
San Francisco, CA
$129,980 (2021) → $166,400 (2025)
Stockton, CA
$128,220 (2021) → $129,860 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Francisco, CA
Stockton, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: San Francisco or Stockton?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Francisco and Stockton?
Should I relocate from San Francisco to Stockton as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in San Francisco vs Stockton?
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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